As the countdown to Black Friday begins, eager shoppers across the UK are eagerly eyeing dropping prices while scammers are focusing on a different target. With a surge in package deliveries expected during the upcoming weeks, cybercriminals are taking advantage of the frenzy by launching deceptive schemes directly to people’s doorsteps.
Recent reports have highlighted a significant rise in “quishing,” a tactic where criminals embed phishing attacks within QR codes. This strategy is now being merged with a revived brushing scam and is becoming more aggressive in anticipation of Black Friday.
Technology expert Theodore Ullrich from Tomorrow Lab has observed a surge in these scams as consumers eagerly await their deliveries. He emphasizes that when individuals are tracking multiple orders simultaneously, they are more susceptible to trusting an unexpected package – a vulnerability that fraudsters exploit.
According to Ullrich, the moment of receiving an unsolicited parcel can lead to a serious breach as recipients often perceive it as a gift or mistake, making them more likely to scan QR codes that redirect to phishing websites. This simple action can expose personal and financial information within seconds, catching victims off guard.
The expert warns that scammers are leveraging public information readily available online to make these deceptive parcels appear authentic. By incorporating QR codes into their schemes, criminals are now targeting victims with phishing attempts, focusing on stealing data and money rather than generating fake reviews.
As the holiday shopping season approaches, Ullrich cautions that individuals need to remain vigilant and not fall for these scams. He advises recipients of unexpected packages to verify the sender through official channels and avoid scanning QR codes from unanticipated deliveries.
In light of the escalating threat posed by these scams, Ullrich stresses the importance of safeguarding personal information by updating passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and monitoring financial transactions closely. He emphasizes the need to approach every QR code with suspicion, especially in the case of unrequested parcels, to prevent falling victim to fraudulent activities.
Ullrich underscores the significance of staying cautious and composed in the face of such scams, particularly during Black Friday when scammers aim to exploit the frenzy of the shopping season. By taking a moment to verify and not rushing into actions, individuals can protect themselves from potential identity theft and financial loss.
