We recently received this email from a CyberGuy reader asking an important question about QR codes:
Can you recommend a QR code reader that does not require an account?In the app store, they both contain ads and In-app purchases. Many people expect you to allow them access to a large amount of non-relevant information in order to use them. For years, I’ve had an app that doesn’t require one to take on one’s soul or access one’s phone activity. Suddenly one day I went to use it and things changed. Can you recommend a non-intrusive QR code reader app that doesn’t require a lot of hoop jumping and remains private and secure?
Loyal Fox Viewer for over 20 years.
QR codes are two-dimensional barcodes that point to content. (CyberGuy.com)
What is a two-dimensional code?
A QR code (short for Quick Response code) is a two-dimensional barcode that can be read with your smartphone camera. QR codes provide quick access to product information, promotions and other content.
They are also used in ticketing, payment systems and other applications that require quick and easy access to information. It’s important to note that QR codes consist of black squares arranged on a white background. It’s not the barcode you see on the back of the package.
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Do I need to use a third-party app to scan the QR code?
Our readers above have asked us to recommend QR code reader apps. However, I recommend not using these reader apps at all.Because all smartphones Ability to scan QR codes in their camera appso there is no need to install an additional app on your phone for this feature.
Regardless, many of these apps now have annoying ads and pop-ups that make them increasingly difficult to use, since one wrong click can take you to a whole new page you never thought of. So if you want to scan any QR codes in the future, stick to your smartphone camera.
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How to scan a QR code with the iPhone camera
- Open camera app on your iPhone
- View The camera is located at the QR code you want to scan
- Wait for the camera to recognize the QR code.This usually happens automatically, although you may need to tap the screen to focus on the code
- When the code is recognized, a notification appears at the top of the screen with a preview of the website or action associated with the QR code
- click notification Open a website or perform an action
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How to scan QR codes with Android camera
- open your Camera app for your phone
- View The camera is located at the QR code you want to scan
- Wait for the camera to start Follow the QR code
- You should see a notification pop up asking if you want to open the link associated with the QR code.If not, tap the notification that appears to open the link
Following the instructions above, try scanning the QR code in the image below in your phone, which will lead you to my CyberGuy website:
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If the camera app doesn’t recognize your iPhone or Android’s QR code, make sure the QR code is clear and well lit. You may also need to adjust the angle or distance of the camera. Also, it’s important to note that older iPhones and Androids may not have the functionality/software to scan QR codes.
What are the dangers of scanning QR codes?
Care must be taken when scanning these codes to ensure that they do not take you to any suspicious websites or links that could infect your device with malware.let’s dig deeper do’s and don’ts QR code.
There are several dangers associated with scanning random QR codes. One trick that has been used is when cybercriminals replace real QR codes with fake ones. If you’ve ever seen the QR codes these companies place at specific touchpoints for the public to scan, cybercriminals replace those original codes with fake ones, directing scanners to phishing sites or malware attacks.
QR codes have also proven to be a problem in phishing emails designed to look legitimate. Typically, a phishing attack will ask you to scan a QR code, and once scanned, you will be asked for various personal information, which will then be handed over to the hacker.
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Since QR codes are also gaining popularity as a payment method, scammers take full advantage of this by sending your money to the wrong account or sending a higher amount from your account than requested.
What warning signs should I look for in QR codes?
Before proceeding to scan the QR code, make sure to do the following:
- Check your code for suspicious elements. Make sure the code itself doesn’t have any weird framed text. Also, if you are scanning commercial codes, make sure the logo looks legitimate and the code design matches the brand colors and specifications. Use your judgment and don’t glance if you’re indecisive.
- Verify URL URL. Whenever you scan a QR code with the camera app on your smartphone, a notification pops up on the screen as soon as the camera’s QR sensor captures the code. Once the URL appears, you should check and verify it for signs of malice, and only click on the link if it has https:// in front of it and is encrypted.
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How to avoid the QR code spying on your privacy
My best advice is, don’t point your phone at any QR codes.Think twice before capturing a QR code with your phone, make sure it is reliable source. Apps not directly from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store are never allowed to be uploaded.
If you use strong security software and apps on all your devices, chances are these types of threats are blocked before they can cause harm.
Check out our best security software options by going to CyberGuy.com and search for “Best Antivirus Protection” Click the magnifying glass at the top of my site.
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Head over to CyberGuy.com for more information and reviews of the best antivirus software. (CyberGuy.com)
Have you seen a QR code scam lately? Let us know about your experience.
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