QR Code Scams on the Rise: How Subscription Traps Are Catching Out UK Consumers
QR code scams, often referred to as “quishing,” are becoming increasingly common, with many people discovering unexpected recurring charges from unfamiliar companies after scanning QR codes in everyday locations like restaurants, shops, bus stops, and car parks. These subscription traps are now among the most frequently reported scams, with victims often unaware of how their payment information was obtained.
C riminals exploit the popularity and convenience of QR codes, those black-and-white squares that link your phone to a website, by placing counterfeit codes over legitimate ones or embedding them in online ads and pop-ups. Recent warnings from police highlight a sharp increase in QR code fraud, especially in public spaces such as parking areas.
How QR code subscription scams work Fraudsters can tamper with legitimate QR codes by placing their own stickers on top of the real ones, especially in public places like parking meters and restaurants. Scanning these fake codes can lead to phishing websites, misleading adverts, or even malware installations, particularly if third-party QR scanner apps are used instead of the built-in camera app on smartphones. Victims may be tricked into providing personal or financial details, or inadvertently sign up for costly recurring subscriptions.
A common tactic involves scammers posing as reputable businesses or services. Victims have reported being charged up to £39.99 per month for subscriptions they never knowingly agreed to, often after scanning a QR code to download an app or access a service. In some cases, the process is so confusing that people don’t realise they’ve signed up for a paid subscription until the first large payment is taken from their account. Scammers may also make it difficult to cancel these unwanted subscriptions, with confirmation emails lacking contact details or containing broken cancellation links. Online reviews for these brands are overwhelmingly negative, reflecting the frustration and financial loss experienced by many consumers.
8 | SCRUTTON BLAND | COUNTER FRAUD
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