Latest news with #QRcodes
The Independent
2 days ago
- The Independent
Major warning issued over car park QR code scams amid rise in ‘quishing'
Criminals are using fraudulent QR codes in car parks to steal personal and financial information, Action Fraud has warned. Almost £3.5 million has been lost due to QR code scams with more than 780 reports of 'quishing' made to the UK's national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime between April 2024 and April 2025. Also known as QR code phishing, 'quishing' is a type of cyberattack where QR codes are used to trick individuals into visiting fraudulent websites or downloading malware. Fraudulent QR codes are most frequently used in car parks, with criminals using stickers to tamper with the scan codes already in place on parking machines. The scam is also used on online shopping platforms, where sellers received a QR code via email to either verify accounts or to receive payment for sold items. Some phishing attacks impersonate HMRC, or other UK government schemes, targeting people with QR codes designed to steal personal and financial details, reports show. People are being asked to stay vigilant and double-check QR codes to see if they are malicious, or have been tampered with, before scanning them online or in public spaces. Claire Webb, Acting Director of Action Fraud, said: 'QR codes are becoming increasingly common in everyday life, whether it's scanning one to pay for parking, or receiving an email asking to verify an online account. However, reporting shows cyber criminals are increasingly using quishing as a way to trick the public out of their personal and financial information. 'We're urging people to stop and check before scanning QR codes, to avoid becoming a victim of quishing. Look out for QR codes that may have been tampered with in open spaces, or emails and texts that might include rogue codes. If you're in doubt, contact the organisation directly.' Although QR codes used in pubs and restaurants are usually safe to scan, ones in open spaces like train stations or car parks, might pose a greater risk. Action Fraud suggests checking for signs that codes may have been tampered with, such as a sticker placed over a legitimate QR code. If you are unsure, it's best to not scan the QR code at all and instead find the official website or app of the organisation you are trying to make the payment to. If you receive an email with a QR code in it, and you're asked to scan it, you should be cautious due to an increase in these types of 'quishing' attacks. Another precaution to take is to always use the QR scanner that comes with your phone, rather than using an app downloaded from an app store, because it is more secure.
Travel Daily News
12-06-2025
- Business
- Travel Daily News
How to add your logo to a QR code and boost brand recognition in travel and hospitality
Branded QR codes are an easy win for tourism businesses aiming to blend digital convenience with strong visual identity. Whether you're a boutique hotel, a global airline, or a local tour guide, a QR code with your logo adds professionalism, credibility, and memorability to your service. In today's fast-paced tourism landscape, where travelers expect instant access to information, contactless solutions have become the norm. Whether it's for mobile check-ins, destination guides, or booking confirmations, QR codes have revolutionized how the travel industry communicates with customers. But not all QR codes are created equal. If you're looking to leave a lasting impression on your guests or passengers, branding your QR codes is a simple yet powerful upgrade. By creating a QR code with your logo, you not only enhance brand recognition but also improve user trust and engagement. Why Branded QR Codes Matter in Tourism Travel and hospitality are highly visual and brand-driven industries. From the moment a traveler books a ticket to the final hotel checkout, they encounter dozens of touchpoints—each an opportunity to reinforce your identity. A generic black-and-white QR code can get the job done, but it's often overlooked or distrusted by travelers who are increasingly concerned about cybersecurity and phishing scams. A QR code with your brand's logo, color scheme, or even a call-to-action builds instant credibility and tells your customer, 'This is safe and professional.' Use Cases for Logo-Enhanced QR Codes in Travel Let's explore some practical ways branded QR codes are already boosting marketing efforts and operational efficiency in the travel industry: 1. Hotels and Resorts Place QR codes with your logo on in-room welcome kits, linking to digital room service menus, spa booking pages, or local attraction guides. Add branded QR codes to keycards or elevator posters, directing guests to Wi-Fi login pages or concierge services. 2. Airlines and Airports Use logo-embedded QR codes on boarding passes for quick access to terminal maps, flight status updates, or duty-free catalogs. Display them on digital signage or in lounges to offer loyalty program enrollment or upgrade options. 3. Tour Operators and Attractions Add your logo to QR codes on brochures or signage at landmarks, linking to audio guides or ticket upgrades. Use them on transport shuttles or tour buses to provide real-time itineraries and safety information. 4. Destination Marketing Travel boards or DMOs can use logo-branded QR codes in tourism campaigns, linking to custom landing pages for city guides, local events, or seasonal offers. How to Create a QR Code With Your Logo Creating a QR code with a logo is easier than you might think. Here's a step-by-step overview: 1. Choose a QR code generator that supports logo insertion. Not all platforms offer this feature, so make sure your provider specializes in branded QR codes. Trueqrcode offers a dedicated tool for adding logos. 2. Upload your logo. Use a high-resolution PNG with a transparent background for best results. Make sure your logo fits well within the central space of the QR code. 3. Customize the QR code. Add your brand colors, borders, or shapes. Choose contrasting colors to maintain scan readability. 4. Test before publishing. Always scan your branded QR code with multiple devices to ensure it works correctly. 5. Download and deploy. Save your code in high quality (SVG or PNG) and use it in both digital and print formats—flyers, posters, business cards, or even luggage tags. Pro Tip: Use Dynamic QR Codes for Flexibility Tourism content often changes—new promotions, updated schedules, or different languages. By pairing your logo QR code with a dynamic QR code, you can update the destination URL at any time without changing the printed code. This is especially useful for long-term signage at tourist attractions or recurring hotel events. The Branding Advantage In a competitive tourism market, standing out is key. A custom QR code with your logo doesn't just look better—it performs better. Studies show that branded QR codes have significantly higher scan rates than standard ones. Travelers are more likely to trust a QR code that reflects the brand they just interacted with at the check-in desk or tour kiosk. Moreover, every scan is an opportunity to reinforce your brand. Imagine a guest scanning your QR code on a poolside cocktail menu and being greeted by your logo and colors—it's a small moment that builds long-term loyalty. Conclusion Branded QR codes are an easy win for tourism businesses aiming to blend digital convenience with strong visual identity. Whether you're a boutique hotel, a global airline, or a local tour guide, a QR code with your logo adds professionalism, credibility, and memorability to your service. Ready to create one for your brand? Try it now with Trueqrcode's logo QR generator and start turning scans into brand stories. Photo by Marielle Ursua on Unsplash
BBC News
08-06-2025
- Automotive
- BBC News
Bolton: Ironman event visitors warned of QR code parking scam
Drivers visiting a town for a triathlon event are being warned to beware of bogus QR codes when Council said the fake codes had been found on pay-and-display machines around Bolton town centre and urged visitors to be authority said council-run car parks only took payment by cash or through the RingGo fake QR codes have directed motorists to fraudulent websites to take payment. Hundreds of people are expected to come to the town to watch or compete in the Bolton Ironman triathlon event, which takes place later. A council spokesman said: "Our civil enforcement officers and machine engineers will continue to respond quickly when alerted to these fake stickers, and they have all been removed as far as we know."They said the warning about ways to pay for parking only applied to car parking payment machines managed by Bolton Council "as some privately-managed car parks within the town may have other payment methods in use".Greater Manchester Police previously warned there had been a "steep rise" in the use of the barcodes, which offer mobile phone users a quick way of accessing a website, since the coronavirus force said criminals were using them as a "new way to defraud people". Listen to the best of BBC Radio Manchester on Sounds and follow BBC Manchester on Facebook, X, and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.
Yahoo
07-06-2025
- Yahoo
Scammers targeting NYC parking meters: How to protect your money
The Brief Scammers are placing fraudulent QR code stickers on NYC parking meters, leading drivers to phishing websites to steal payment information. The Department of Transportation acted swiftly by notifying users, inspecting meters, and working with Microsoft to remove the phishing site. Cybersecurity expert Robert Siciliano advises using official apps for parking payments and monitoring credit card statements, while reporting any suspicious QR codes. NEW YORK - Drivers beware! Scammers are targeting New York City parking meters by placing fraudulent QR code stickers on machines, directing drivers to third-party websites to steal payment information. What we know The Department of Transportation warns that scanning these QR codes leads to a phishing site where users are asked for payment details, which are then stolen by scammers. At least one fake sticker was found on a meter, prompting immediate action from the agency, including notifications to users, inspections of all meters, and collaboration with Microsoft to remove the phishing site. What they're saying Cybersecurity expert Robert Siciliano advises vigilance, noting that lone QR codes are often fraudulent. "A lone QR code that is plastered on is usually going to be fraud," he said. "Most municipalities and cities know at this point that there are three to five different apps that consumers might use to log in to pay for their parking, and as long as you have that app on your phone, generally you should be good." He also emphasizes monitoring credit card statements for unauthorized charges. "The problem with this particular crime is if you are not paying attention to your credit card statements in real time and pay the bill, you are responsible for that fraud," he said. What you can do The official way to pay for metered parking in the city is through the ParkNYC app or by inserting a credit card directly into the meter. Reporting any suspicious QR codes is crucial. The Source This article uses information from the New York City DOT and cybersecurity expert Robert Siciliano.
Japan Times
21-05-2025
- Business
- Japan Times
Cashless payments top 40% of consumer spending in Japan
Cashless payments, primarily those made through credit cards, electronic money and QR codes, are becoming increasingly widespread in Japan. Such payment methods now account for over 40% of all personal spending in the country, reflecting a growing trend of consumers carrying little or no cash with them when going out. A number of issues still need to be addressed, however, especially a growing risk of unauthorized use of cashless payments and the potential disruption of services during disasters. In late March, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry reported that cashless payments in Japan totaled ¥141 trillion ($980 billion) in 2024, marking an 11.3% increase from the previous year. The share of such payments in personal consumption surpassed 40% for the first time, reaching 42.8%. The government's target of around 40% of spending to be made via cashless payments by 2025 was therefore achieved ahead of schedule. Cashless payments have continued to grow steadily year by year, with the total for 2024 reaching 3.7 times the ¥38.3 trillion recorded in 2010. A breakdown of the 2024 figures shows that credit cards accounted for the largest share of the total, at 82.9%, while payments based on QR or other codes have expanded rapidly, making up 9.6%. While electronic commerce has grown, an increasing number of brick-and-mortar stores now accept contactless credit card payments and smartphone-based apps such as PayPay, creating an environment more conducive to cashless shopping. The COVID-19 pandemic also accelerated the adoption of cashless payments, as consumers sought to minimize physical contact during in-person transactions. From a global perspective, however, Japan's cashless payment penetration remains relatively low. According to the Payments Japan Association, South Korea recorded by far the highest share of cashless payments in 2022, at 99.0%. Japan also trailed significantly behind China's 83.5%, Singapore's 65.6%, Britain's 64.2%, and the United States' 56.4%. The government aims to raise the domestic share of cashless payments to 80% to put the country's rate among the highest globally. Officials note that expanding cashless payments will not only enhance user convenience, but also help reduce cash-handling costs and alleviate labor shortages. Still, achieving the government's target will require overcoming several challenges. One major hurdle is the high cost borne by retailers, including expenses for installing cashless payment equipment and the commissions charged by service providers. The government has called on related industries to collaborate on easing financial burdens wherever possible. In addition, credit card fraud remains a serious concern. According to the Japan Consumer Credit Association, losses from unauthorized use reached a record ¥55.5 billion in 2024, with over 90% of the total attributed to stolen card numbers. In response, eight credit card companies in Japan announced a joint initiative in March to crack down on phishing websites. Moreover, natural disasters can pose a significant risk to cashless payment systems. A powerful earthquake that struck Hokkaido in 2018 triggered a regionwide power outage, the first of its kind in the country. With cash registers unable to read product information or verify credit card details, cashless payments could not be made at many stores. People without cash were unable to purchase essentials such as food and beverages, underscoring the risks of relying too heavily on cashless payments. In a report released in late March, the government announced new damage forecasts for a potential large-scale earthquake along the Nankai Trough, off the Pacific coast from central to western Japan. The report warned of the possibility that many consumers could become "shopping refugees," stranded without access to essential goods due to power outages and communication failures. The report emphasized that measures to ensure the continuity of payment systems "must be implemented on an ongoing basis." It also cautioned that system failures "could affect not only disaster-hit regions but the entire country," effectively urging consumers to keep cash on hand in case of emergencies.
