Dubai Electronic Security Centre (DESC) has warned of a rise in fraud attempts involving fake QR codes, particularly those distributed through email, as cybercriminals seek to exploit users’ trust in urgent digital messages and service notifications.
According to DESC, scammers are circulating QR codes that appear to offer urgent updates or access to services, but scanning them can result in malware being installed on a victim’s device or redirect the user to fake websites designed to capture personal and financial data.
DESC urged the public to verify the source of any email before scanning a QR code, avoid engaging with suspicious messages and refrain from entering information through untrusted links. The centre also highlighted the role of its RZAM application, which provides real-time alerts on suspicious websites and allows users to scan links before opening them.
The warning reflects growing concern over the misuse of QR codes in cyber fraud, with DESC positioning user awareness and link verification as key lines of defence against phishing, malware and identity theft.
