SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) – QR codes may be a quick and easy way to access websites and make payments on your smartphone, but QR code scams are on the rise. There’s even a name for QR code scams. It’s called quishing.

But you’ll be much safer from scams once you learn how to avoid false codes.

What is a QR code?

A Quick Response code (QR code) is a square-shaped barcode that you can scan with your smartphone’s camera to gain access to websites. One of the biggest uses of QR codes is to give and receive payments.

However, those who have little experience with QR codes may run into trouble if they scan the wrong codes.

Here are a few rules that can help keep you safe:

• Never use a public QR code to send money unless you know with certainty the code is legitimate
• Remember that QR codes can be tampered with, so watch for stickers over QR codes on posters, flyers, and other signage
• Fake codes often lead to an official-looking site that simply wants your credit card information, so watch for warning signs
• It’s better to enter a URL and make payments straight through the website
• Some QR codes have been designed with the intention of leading you to a malicious website that steals your personal information
• Be wary of QR codes that appeal to your emotions by making you feel like a matter is urgent
• Poor grammar on a site you’ve connected with via QR code is an indication that something is wrong

Here’s a list of some of the places you might find fake QR codes:

• parking lots
• restaurants
• magazines and newspapers
• shopping malls
• bars
• texts
• parking meters
• menus
• your mailbox
• your inbox

And lastly, here are a few ways scammers can entice you with a QR code:

• You’re promised a reward if you scan a QR code
• You find yourself curious about what you will learn when you scan a QR code
• Be wary of QR codes that offer surveys, promise free goods or offer free services

Remember that your smartphone’s camera can read a QR code just fine. You don’t need a QR code app, so don’t download fraudulent software masquerading as a QR code reader.

And never give login credentials, credit card numbers, or any other person information to a website you’ve discovered through a QR code.

If you’d like to learn more about QR code scams, visit the Social Security Administration’s website.

You can also report imposter scams to the Office of the Inspector General.