QR Code Phishing (Quishing) Explained | How Scammers Use QR Codes to Steal Your Data in 2025

Table of Contents

• What Is QR Code Phishing (Quishing)?
• Step-by-Step Breakdown of a Quishing Attack
•  Why QR Code Phishing Is Dangerous
• Common Tactics Used in Quishing Attacks
• Real-World Incidents of Quishing
•  How to Protect Yourself from Quishing Attacks
• How Organizations Can Prevent Quishing
•  Conclusion
•  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

QR code phishing — also known as Quishing — is an emerging cyber threat where attackers exploit QR codes to trick users into visiting malicious websites or revealing sensitive data. While QR codes offer quick access to digital content, their popularity has opened a new gateway for phishing attacks. In 2025, with over 74% of internet users unaware of QR code spam, this attack vector is growing rapidly. In this blog, we’ll break down how quishing works, share a real-world style diagram, and offer protection tips for users and organizations.

What Is QR Code Phishing (Quishing)?

Quishing is a cyberattack technique where attackers embed malicious links inside QR codes. These codes are then distributed via emails, SMS, flyers, social media, or even fake advertisements. Once scanned, they redirect victims to phishing pages that look legitimate — prompting them to enter login credentials, banking details, or other private information.

Step-by-Step Breakdown of a Quishing Attack

Why QR Code Phishing Is Dangerous

• Hard to detect: Users can't see the URL hidden behind the QR code until after scanning.

  
  

• Bypasses traditional email filters: QR images avoid link-detection systems.

• Targets mobile users: Mobile browsers may lack security alerts present on desktops.

• Exploits urgency: Fake offers or warnings increase click-through rates.

Common Tactics Used in Quishing Attacks

• Fake parking meter QR codes

• Impersonated business or bank codes

  
  

• Free Wi-Fi QR codes in public spaces

• Phishing emails with QR attachments

• Fake login portals or multi-factor prompts

Real-World Incidents of Quishing

• 2023: Fake restaurant menus in Europe tricked tourists into entering credit card details via QR menus.

• 2024: Corporate emails impersonating Microsoft 365 included QR codes leading to credential harvesting pages.

• 2025: Quishing campaigns detected in US cities targeting public parking QR codes to steal user credentials.

How to Protect Yourself from Quishing Attacks

1. Avoid scanning codes from untrusted sources.

2. Preview URLs before opening — use apps that allow link preview.

3. Verify the origin of QR codes in emails or posters.

4. Use mobile antivirus software with QR scanning protection.

5. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) to reduce risk of compromised accounts.

6. Educate employees and conduct phishing simulations.

7. Avoid entering sensitive data after scanning a QR code unless 100% sure of the source.

How Organizations Can Prevent Quishing

• Conduct regular security awareness training.

• Use email filters to flag QR image attachments.

• Deploy Mobile Threat Defense (MTD) solutions.

• Issue secure QR codes internally with embedded encryption or domain verification.

• Monitor network traffic for unusual QR redirections.

Conclusion

As QR code usage becomes mainstream in digital transactions, restaurants, banking, and event registrations — attackers are shifting focus to this underprotected medium. Quishing is stealthy, fast, and often goes undetected until damage is done. Whether you're an individual or a business, understanding how QR code phishing works and taking preventive measures is critical to staying safe in 2025 and beyond.

 FAQs

What is QR code phishing or quishing?

Quishing is a phishing method where attackers use QR codes to redirect users to malicious websites and steal data.

How does a QR code phishing attack work?

The attacker sends a QR code that leads to a fake login or payment page, tricking users into entering personal information.

What does 'quishing' stand for?

Quishing combines “QR” and “phishing,” referring to cyberattacks launched via malicious QR codes.

Why are QR code attacks increasing?

The widespread use of QR codes in payments, logins, and promotions has made them a target for hackers.

How do hackers deliver malicious QR codes?

They distribute QR codes via email, posters, SMS, websites, or even fake advertisements.

Can a QR code hack your phone?

While a QR code cannot directly hack your phone, it can redirect you to a malicious site that steals information.

What are the signs of a phishing QR code?

Signs include unexpected prompts for personal info, redirects to unfamiliar domains, or login requests from suspicious pages.

What happens when you scan a fake QR code?

It may open a fraudulent webpage that collects sensitive details like passwords, credit card numbers, or OTPs.

Are QR phishing scams detectable by antivirus?

Some mobile security apps with QR scanners can detect and block malicious links embedded in QR codes.

How can I preview a QR code’s link safely?

Use QR scanner apps that show the destination URL before opening it.

Is quishing different from smishing or vishing?

Yes, quishing uses QR codes, smishing uses SMS, and vishing uses voice calls to deceive victims.

Who is most vulnerable to QR phishing attacks?

Mobile users, employees unaware of cybersecurity threats, and those who scan codes without verifying sources.

What should I do if I scanned a malicious QR code?

Disconnect from the internet, do not enter data, clear your browser, and change passwords immediately.

Can QR code phishing bypass email spam filters?

Yes, since QR codes are images, many spam filters fail to detect the malicious intent.

What industries are most targeted by quishing?

Finance, education, healthcare, and e-commerce sectors are prime targets due to frequent QR use.

How can organizations protect against QR phishing?

Train staff, restrict scanning unknown codes, deploy email security filters, and use QR scanners with validation.

Is scanning QR codes from printed flyers safe?

Only scan from trusted sources; printed codes can be swapped with malicious ones.

Are QR code phishing scams common in 2025?

Yes, they’ve surged in 2025 as hackers exploit low awareness and increased QR use.

How to educate employees about quishing?

Conduct training, awareness programs, phishing simulations, and share attack examples.

Are there apps to detect fake QR codes?

Yes, use secure QR code scanners like Norton Snap, Kaspersky QR Scanner, or Trend Micro QR Scanner.

What data can be stolen through QR code phishing?

Login credentials, banking details, personal identification numbers, and even two-factor tokens.

How to report a QR phishing scam?

Report it to your IT team, CERT-In (India), or the platform (e.g., Google, Microsoft) it impersonated.

Do antivirus tools scan QR codes automatically?

Not always — you may need to scan through a specific security app to analyze the QR code safely.

How are attackers creating phishing pages for QR scans?

They host lookalike websites or clone login portals to collect sensitive data after the QR code redirects.

Can QR code phishing be automated by attackers?

Yes, attackers use phishing kits and automation tools to deploy fake QR campaigns at scale.

How to verify if a QR code is legitimate?

Check the source of the code, preview the link, and confirm the domain matches the expected source.

Should I avoid scanning all QR codes?

No, just be cautious and avoid scanning codes from untrusted or unknown sources.

Are mobile banking apps at risk from quishing?

Yes, fake banking login pages accessed through QR codes can steal login details.

How long do quishing scams remain undetected?

Until reported or discovered via security audits, many remain active for days or weeks.

What should businesses do to prepare against QR phishing in 2025?

Create a QR security policy, educate users, and deploy real-time URL scanning and phishing protection.