UK Android and iPhone users put on red alert - you must 'stop' using these popular apps

Everyone with a smartphone in their pocket needs to be aware of a worrying new trend that could see some losing money to hackers. It seems that popular QR codes are now being used to target unsuspecting users and being tricked can lead to personal data and banking details being handed to online crooks.

This new so-called "quishing" alert has been raised by the team at Action Fraud who say these types of attacks are on the rise and costing people millions each year.

The most common place to be targeted is car parks, with criminals using fake stickers to tamper with real QR codes on parking machines.

Quishing is also taking place via online shopping platforms, where sellers receive a QR code via email to either verify accounts or to receive payment for sold items.

Explaining more, Claire Webb, Acting Director of Action Fraud, said: "QR codes are becoming increasingly common in everyday life, whether it’s scanning one to pay for parking, or receiving an email asking to verify an online account. However, reporting shows cyber criminals are increasingly using quishing as a way to trick the public out of their personal and financial information."

"We’re urging people to stop and check before scanning QR codes, to avoid becoming a victim of quishing. Look out for QR codes that may have been tampered with in open spaces, or emails and texts that might include rogue codes."

Along with issuing the alert, Action Fraud has also released some new advice, which includes not using QR Code scanning apps found on some app stores.

"We recommend that you use the QR-scanner that comes with your phone, rather than using an app downloaded from an app store," Action Fraud said.

Other tips to stay safe include being cautious when seeing a QR in an email and always checking that codes haven't been tampered with when in public spaces.

"Scanning QR codes in open spaces (like stations and car parks) might pose a greater risk. Check for signs that codes may have been tampered with (usually by a sticker placed over the legitimate QR code). If in doubt, do not scan them," Action Fraud confirmed.

Yes QR codes make life incredibly simply but beware before scanning any of them on your phone.