How to avoid a bad QR code

QR Codes and mobile Security

QR Code Security

Not all forms of quick response code are friendly, so you need to learn smartphone security.

Though they may be fun to use, scanning a quick response code could put your device at risk, so make sure that you learn a few important tips in smartphone security to help to keep malicious software away.

QR code security is just a matter of a little common sense and well applied paranoia.

Knowing how to avoid a bad QR code can save your device and your privacy, regardless of what operating system it uses, from Android to iOS. The malicious software that is currently out there is designed to attack most of the major devices available.

The problem with QR code security is that it’s impossible to tell where scanning it will lead.

In response to this problem, companies such as Symantec (best known for Norton Antivirus) have been developing new ways to protect device users and their private data. That company, for example, has released a scanner that allows a link to be checked before it is loaded. The app is called Norton Snap and is available for both Android and iOS devices.

When a barcode is scanned, it first checks the link and then provides with a safety rating that allows the user to decide whether or not to proceed. Then, if the user wants to continue, he or she need only tap on the address. A rating box is also provided, which can be tapped in order to learn more about the site’s details.

Norton Snap is a free beta application at the moment, though it is unknown whether it will one day come with a price.

Other steps that can be taken to help boost QR code security are the following:

• When no information is available to describe a barcode, be suspicious. A malicious quick response code is rarely accompanied by any text.

• Never give any personal or login details to any site accessed through a barcode, as it could be an example of phishing.

These, in combination with a reader that will allow a preview and/or rating of the URL before it is loaded should be very helpful to boost your smartphone security when using QR codes.

 

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