QR codes, while convenient for quickly accessing websites or making payments, can also pose significant cybersecurity risks. Malicious actors can easily encode harmful links or malware into QR codes, tricking unsuspecting users into scanning them. Once scanned, these codes can direct users to fraudulent websites that steal personal information, install malware on devices, or engage in phishing attacks. Since QR codes often bypass typical security precautions like website addresses being visually checked, many people trust them without hesitation. It’s crucial to exercise caution when scanning QR codes, especially from untrusted sources, and to ensure that any link or request looks legitimate before proceeding. Always use updated security software and consider using QR code scanning apps that preview links before opening them to protect yourself from these hidden dangers.