According to the Digital 2025 Global Overview report by DataReportal, Malaysia recorded a very high QR code usage rate, ranking second in the world after China. A whopping 66.1% of Malaysians are actively using QR codes, far exceeding the global average of 50.8%. However, behind this convenience, there is a new threat that should not be underestimated, namely fraud through QR codes or known as QR scams. Cybersecurity expert from Kaspersky, Noushin Shabab, warned that the increase in the use of QR codes also opens up new opportunities for cybercriminals to exploit users.
"QR code fraud occurs when a legitimate code is transformed into a malicious code, which can steal users' personal information, money or cause various other security complications," said Noushin in an interview with Bernama in conjunction with GITEX Asia 2025 at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore, recently.
He added that with the increasing use of QR codes in Malaysia, more cybercriminals are seeing it as an opportunity to carry out their nefarious activities. This includes displaying fake QR codes in public places, or sending codes via email and social media to deceive users.
In this regard, users are advised to be more careful when scanning QR codes. Among the security measures that can be taken are ensuring the source of the code is legitimate, using a security application that can scan URLs hidden in the code, and avoiding entering sensitive information directly after scanning.
In today's digital world, QR codes offer limitless convenience. However, awareness of the cyber risks hidden behind this technology is equally important to ensure your digital security is always guaranteed.
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