Cybersecurity Threat QR Codes Pose 2024

In recent years, the use of QR codes has become increasingly prevalent in various industries, offering a convenient way for users to access information and services. However, this rise in popularity has also caught the attention of cybercriminals, leading to a significant increase in QR code phishing attacks, also known as “quishing.” In 2023, there was a startling increase in these types of attacks, raising alarms in the cybersecurity community.

A report from Hoxhunt, which conducted a comprehensive study across 38 organizations spanning nine industries and 125 countries, revealed a 22% increase in the use of QR codes to deliver malicious payloads in phishing attacks in early October 2023. Check Point, a cybersecurity firm, noted a similar trend, observing a 587% surge in QR code phishing attacks between August and September 2023. Additionally, a study by ReliaQuest reported a 51% increase in quishing attacks in September 2023, compared to the cumulative figure for January through August of the same year.

QR code phishing represents a new and challenging threat because it moves the attack channel from the more secure email environment to the user’s mobile device, which is often less protected. With QR codes, the URL isn’t exposed within the body of the email, rendering most email security scans ineffective.

The Hoxhunt Challenge, which involved simulating QR-based phishing attacks, found that only 36% of employees receiving the simulated quishing messages identified and reported the attack. This suggests that a majority of organizations would be vulnerable to a similar phishing attack in a real-world context.

The most popular quishing scenario involved Microsoft two-factor authentication (2FA) resets or enablement, occurring in 56% of quishing emails in a sample data set. Other common tactics included online banking page lures and hiding QR codes in PDF or JPEG files attached to emails.

One of the main reasons QR code phishing is effective is due to the widespread use of QR codes for various legitimate purposes, such as payments and information access, making them an attractive target for attackers. These codes can easily conceal malicious links, leading users to harmful websites without raising suspicion.

To combat the rising threat of quishing attacks, experts recommend the inclusion of Optical Character Recognition (OCR) within security solutions. OCR can decipher QR codes, revealing the underlying URL for analysis. Additionally, it is important for users to verify the source before scanning QR codes in emails and for organizations to adopt email security solutions that utilize OCR capabilities.

The rise of QR code phishing in 2023 highlights an evolving cybersecurity challenge that organizations and individuals must be aware of. Continuous training for employees and the implementation of advanced security solutions are crucial in mitigating the risks associated with these attacks. As cybercriminals continue to innovate, staying vigilant and informed about the latest threats is more important than ever.

How Organizations Can Stay Safe:

1. Employee Education and Awareness Training: Educate employees about the risks associated with QR codes and how to identify potential phishing attempts. Teach them to be cautious of QR codes received via email, especially from unknown sources.

2. Implement Advanced Security Solutions: Use security solutions that include Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology to decipher QR codes and analyze the underlying URLs. This can help identify malicious links.

3. Regular Security Audits and Updates: Regularly update security protocols and software to protect against the latest threats. Conduct periodic security audits to assess vulnerabilities.

4. Encourage Reporting Suspicious Activity: Create a culture where employees feel comfortable reporting suspicious QR codes or emails. Quick reporting can prevent wider security breaches.

5. Use Trusted QR Code Generators: Ensure that any QR codes used by the organization for legitimate purposes are generated using trusted and secure platforms.

6. Control Access and Permissions: Limit the access and permissions of applications and services that use QR codes, especially those that have access to sensitive data.

How Individuals Can Stay Safe:

1. Verify the Source: Before scanning a QR code, especially those received via email or found in unfamiliar locations, verify the legitimacy of the source. Be wary of QR codes in unsolicited emails.

2. Check the URL: After scanning a QR code, check the URL it directs to before entering any information. Ensure that the website is legitimate and secure (look for HTTPS in the web address).

3. Avoid Downloading Files: Be cautious of QR codes that prompt the download of files or applications, as these could contain malware.

4. Use Secure QR Code Scanning Apps: Some QR code scanning apps have security features that can check the safety of the links. Consider using these apps for an added layer of protection.

5. Maintain Up-to-Date Security Software: Keep your mobile device’s security software updated to protect against malware and other threats.

6. Be Wary of Personal Information Requests: Be suspicious of QR codes that lead to pages requesting personal or financial information.

7. Report Suspicious QR Codes: If you encounter a QR code that seems malicious, report it to the relevant authorities or the organization that supposedly issued it.

By adopting these practices, both organizations and individuals can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to malicious QR code attacks. As with any form of phishing, the key is to stay informed, cautious, and proactive in cybersecurity measures.