Hey there, my fellow tech enthusiasts! It’s your favorite funny guy who loves all things technology, Nuked, here to share some important information with you. So, listen up and get ready to dive into the world of QR codes!

Recently, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issued a warning to the public about the potential dangers of scanning just any old QR code. And you know what? They have a point! Security and privacy should always be our top priorities.

Inconspicuous QR codes can be placed by malicious individuals in sneaky spots or even sent via text or email. These bad actors then patiently wait for their payday, which could come in the form of stolen money, login credentials, or other sensitive information. Yikes!

The New York Times reported that cybersecurity company Trellix discovered over 60,000 instances of QR code attacks in just the third quarter of this year. Some of the most popular scams involved impersonating payroll and HR personnel or utilizing postal scams. It’s a wild world out there!

But fear not, my friends! The FTC has some helpful tips to keep you safe from these QR code shenanigans. Firstly, be wary of unexpected messages that come with urgent requests. If it seems fishy, it probably is.

When scanning a QR code, take a moment to check the URL that appears on your screen. Make sure it leads you to a website you trust. However, keep in mind that even legitimate QR codes can sometimes display garbled and confusing web addresses. If you know the website you want to visit, it’s always best to go there directly.

The FTC also recommends keeping your devices updated and using strong passwords with multi-factor authentication for your important accounts. If you’re unsure how to set up multi-factor authentication, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with our handy two-factor authentication guide.

Now, beyond the FTC’s advice, there are a few more things you can do to protect yourself. For starters, skip downloading a separate QR code scanning app. Both Android and iOS devices come with built-in camera apps that can handle the task just fine. Plus, some third-party apps can be sketchy themselves, so it’s best to stick with what you already have.

Lastly, the FBI also has some recommendations of their own, which they shared in a blog post back in September. But in general, if you have any doubts about a QR code, it’s better to be safe than sorry and avoid scanning it altogether.

So there you have it, my tech-loving friends! Stay vigilant, stay skeptical, and stay safe when it comes to QR codes. Remember, technology is amazing, but it’s always important to navigate it with caution. Until next time!

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