Are all QR codes risky?

No, not all QR codes are risky—most are safe and used legitimately to facilitate everyday tasks like viewing menus, making payments, or accessing apps. However, because QR codes can hide malicious links, it's important to stay cautious. Only scan codes from trusted sources and avoid those in unexpected messages or unfamiliar public places.

How can I verify if a QR code is safe?

You can help verify a QR code’s safety by checking for signs of tampering (such as stickers placed over existing codes) and previewing the URL before opening it. Most smartphones display the destination link after scanning but before opening it, giving you a chance to assess whether it looks legitimate. When in doubt, avoid scanning and contact the organization directly through official channels to confirm the QR code’s authenticity.

QRLjacking (QR code login jacking) is a sophisticated cyberattack in which scammers intercept and replicate legitimate login QR codes in real time. When you scan one of these hijacked codes — believing you're securely logging into WhatsApp Web, Telegram, or banking apps — you’re actually authenticating the attacker’s session instead.

Can QR codes infect your device without being scanned?

No, QR codes can’t infect your device unless you actively scan them. They’re simply images that store data, usually in the form of a web link. The risk comes after scanning, especially if you take further action, such as visiting a website, downloading an app, or entering personal information.

QR code scams: How to spot fake QR codes

Call us: 1-800-416-0599

Call us

Get LifeLock Standard

Published:

This article contains

13 Instagram scams to look out for in 2025

Learn about 13 common Instagram scams to watch out for as you scroll.

Scams & Fraud

How to identify a scammer online and on the phone

Learn how to identify a scammer and discover common tactics fraudsters use to help you avoid scams.

November 18, 2024 · 7 min read

Scams & Fraud

Brushing scams: How to identify them and protect your identity

If you’ve ever found packages on your doorstep that you didn’t order, they might be part of a brushing scam. Learn more about how these scams work and how to identify the signs.

November 08, 2023 · 9 min

Scams & Fraud

Watch out for IRS impersonation scams this tax season

Scammers pretending to be the IRS use calls, texts, or emails to scare you into giving up info by claiming you owe taxes and face penalties.

March 13, 2024 · 4 min read

Scams & Fraud

Scam call numbers to block in 2025

Phone won’t stop ringing? Here’s a list of scam call numbers to block and other tips to help reduce scam calls.

January 29, 2025 · 11 min read

Start your protection,
enroll in minutes.

Start membership

Copyright © 2025 Gen Digital Inc. All rights reserved. All trademarks, service marks, and tradenames (collectively, the "Marks") are trademarks or registered trademarks of Gen Digital Inc. or its affiliates ("Gen") or other respective owners that have granted Gen the right to use such Marks. For a list of Gen Marks please see GenDigital.com/trademarks.

This article contains

Related articles

Start your protection, enroll in minutes.

Start your protection,
enroll in minutes.