A new wave of scams involving QR codes has hit Broward County, with residents falling victim to fraudsters exploiting the technology. QR codes have become increasingly popular due to their convenience, but this has also opened up opportunities for scammers. Scammers are placing phony QR codes over real ones, leading unsuspecting victims to fraudulent websites where they attempt to steal personal information, make unauthorized payments, or download malware onto their devices.
Broward County residents are urged to be cautious after multiple reports of scams involving malicious QR codes have been reported to BSO. Scammers are placing these seemingly harmless barcodes in public places, tricking victims into scanning them and potentially leading to financial losses or identity theft.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody have issued warnings about the rise in QR code scams. The FTC advises consumers to avoid any QR code received via email and to be cautious of QR codes placed on parking meters or restaurant menus or through text messaging.