Dubai’s Scan Smart Campaign Reaches 13,000 as DESC Pushes QR Code Safety

Dubai’s electronic security authority says its Scan Smart campaign reached more than 13,000 people and achieved a 99% engagement rate, highlighting rising concern over fake QR codes and phishing risks in everyday settings

Dubai Electronic Security Center has concluded its Scan Smart awareness campaign after drawing strong public participation across the city, according to DESC. The initiative was launched during Cybersecurity Awareness Month to educate residents, visitors and businesses about the risks linked to fraudulent QR codes and related phishing attempts.

DESC said the campaign reached more than 13,000 people and recorded a 99% engagement rate through interactive activities held at Khawaneej Walk. More than 30 cafés and restaurants also joined the initiative as “Smart Scan Partners,” helping extend the campaign’s visibility into everyday public environments where QR code use has become routine.

According to DESC, the campaign combined education with hands-on engagement and was supported by digital outreach across social media, video content and other interactive channels. The center also issued a new awareness booklet aimed at improving public understanding of unsafe QR codes and the cyber risks they can open up.

The campaign reflects a broader push in Dubai to strengthen practical cyber hygiene at the community level, especially as QR-based interactions become more common in dining, retail and services. DESC said the effort was designed to promote preventive practices as a first line of defense and deepen the culture of digital security across the emirate.

Source: DESC