I was curious about the security of QR codes after a strange experience in a cab where the name on the payment app didn't match the driver's. Is there any way that hackers could alter a QR code to change its destination? I understand very little about hacking—like, I don't even know what binary means—so I'd appreciate any insights into how QR codes work and if they can be exploited in this way.
2 Answers
QR codes are essentially just encoded text. They can't be hacked to change what they point to, but the actual QR code can be swapped out with a fake one. For example, someone could put a sticker on top of a real QR code to redirect you to a different site. Always double-check before scanning a QR code, especially in public spaces!
You're on the right track thinking about security! The QR code itself is just a format for fixed data, usually linking to a website. However, if someone creates a QR code that redirects to their own domain, they could then change where that points. It's not hacking per se; it’s just a redirect. Definitely a good reason to be wary of codes that redirect through third-party services!
Exactly! Always avoid using QR codes from untrusted sources. It's better to type in the URL if you're not sure!
Right! It’s super important to be cautious. Those fake stickers can lead to a lot of trouble if you’re not careful!