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What Is QR-Code Phishing?

July 28, 2026 · 14 min

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QR-code phishing uses a scannable image to conceal a malicious web address or other attacker-controlled destination. Certification exams may describe a QR code placed in an email, poster, document, parking notice, or package and ask why it can bypass normal link inspection. Because the destination is not immediately visible, a user may scan the code with a personal phone and move the interaction outside the organization’s protected email, browser, and network controls. The resulting page may request credentials, payment information, multifactor authentication codes, or software installation. Defenses include QR-code scanning protections, mobile web filtering, phishing-resistant authentication, user training, and independent verification of unexpected requests. Users should inspect the destination before continuing, avoid entering credentials after following an unverified code, and report suspicious codes to security personnel. Produced by BareMetalCyber.com, where you’ll find more cyber audio courses, books, and information to strengthen your educational path. Also, if you want to stay up to date with the latest news, visit DailyCyber.News for a newsletter you can use, and a daily podcast you can commute with. And dont forget Cyberauthor.me for the companion study guide and flash cards!

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