RCMP alerts public to potentially harmful QR codes

Red Deer RCMP would like to alert residents to possible scams involving Quick Response (QR) codes.

QR codes are small tags that, when scanned with your device’s camera, automatically opens a webpage on your internet browser. These codes are often found on legitimate products, such as shampoo bottles, as well as in magazine advertisement or on television.

Recent scams have been discovered using QR codes, which when scanned, brings the user to a website that contains malware. This malware can obtain your banking information and other sensitive information. In one example, a member of the public received a package of luxury goods that they had not ordered. When opened there was an attached note directing them to scan the QR code.

Other examples see fraudsters place QR codes on top of authentic ones. Red Deer RCMP would like to remind the community to be mindful of QR codes and only scan the code if you are sure it is authentic.

Red Deer RCMP encourages the public to visit The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca) to familiarize themselves with the many different types of scams out there, as well as to access information and resources to share with family and friends.

If you have fallen victim to this or any other scam, please contact Red Deer RCMP at 403-406-2200, as well as the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca or 1-888-495-8501). To report crime online, or for access to RCMP news and information, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play.