With Black Friday approaching rapidly, while shoppers are on the lookout for deals, scammers are focusing on a different target. Cybercriminals are taking advantage of the surge in parcel deliveries during this period to launch scams right at people’s doorsteps.
Recent reports have highlighted a rise in “quishing,” a tactic where criminals embed phishing attacks within QR codes. This method is now being combined with a revived brushing scam, becoming more aggressive as Black Friday approaches.
Technology expert Theodore Ullrich from Tomorrow Lab has observed a surge in these scams as consumers eagerly await their deliveries. He warns that scammers capitalize on the trust people have in unexpected packages, leading them to scan QR codes that redirect to phishing sites.
Ullrich explains how easily individuals can fall victim to these scams, emphasizing the importance of caution when encountering QR codes on packages. He notes that scammers have evolved the traditional brushing scam by incorporating QR codes to steal personal and financial information.
As criminals exploit the abundance of personal data available online, Ullrich expresses concern about the increasing sophistication of these scams. He urges people to be vigilant and advises against scanning QR codes from unexpected parcels, especially during the high volume of Black Friday sales.
To combat these threats, Ullrich recommends contacting companies directly to verify unexpected packages and taking proactive steps to secure personal information. He emphasizes the need for skepticism when encountering unfamiliar QR codes and urges consumers to prioritize caution over haste during the shopping frenzy.
In conclusion, staying alert and maintaining a level-headed approach is key to thwarting scammers during Black Friday and beyond. Being cautious, avoiding impulsive actions, and scrutinizing QR codes are essential steps to safeguard personal information and prevent identity theft.