Why is it important to use QR codes safely?
QR codes are everywhere: restaurant menus, hospitals, promotions, and even official documents. They are a quick way to take users to a web page, but they can also become an entry point for cyberattacks if they are used carelessly.
In this article, we explain how to generate, use, and share QR codes safely from your website or campaigns, protecting both you and your visitors.
Steps to use QR codes safely
Use a secure URL (HTTPS)
Make sure the destination uses HTTPS. That shows the site has an active SSL certificate and helps reduce impersonation risks.Verify the URL before generating the code
Check the address carefully. Avoid typos, odd redirects, or wrong destinations.Generate QR codes using trusted platforms
Avoid random online generators full of ads or data collection. If you manage your own hosting, you can even generate QR codes internally using libraries such asphpqrcode.Avoid URL shorteners unless you really need them
If the destination is hidden, users cannot tell where they are going, which reduces trust.Scan the QR code yourself before publishing it
Always test it and confirm it points to the correct destination.Protect the landing pages
If the QR code points to forms or private areas, protect them with SSL, authentication, and anti-spam measures.
Real risks and how to avoid them
Cybercriminals can abuse QR codes to:
Redirect visitors to fake websites that imitate legitimate ones
Install malicious software on a device
Steal credentials or personal information
Common example: an attacker prints a malicious QR code and places it over a legitimate one. At first glance everything looks normal, but the visitor ends up on a fake website.
Best practices to avoid becoming a victim
Do not scan codes from unknown or untrusted sources.
Check whether the QR code appears to have been tampered with or placed over another one.
Be suspicious of QR codes received by email, even from familiar senders.
Never enter sensitive information such as passwords or banking data on a website reached through a QR code unless you have verified that it is legitimate.
Additional advice
Add a short description next to the QR code so users know where it leads.
If you print QR codes in campaigns, make sure the design has good resolution and contrast.
Consider dynamic QR codes if you need to update the destination later without reprinting materials.
Do not forget
QR codes are excellent tools, but only if they are used carefully. At Bacan.com, we recommend following these good practices to protect both your website and your visitors.