Last week on Regional Radio, we heard from a Social Security expert regarding a new scam trend revolving around QR Codes.
Quick Response codes, better known as QR codes are a popular way to get information. They are scannable bar codes - often squares - that will direct you to a website. Jack Myers with Social Security encourages verify the source. When you hover over a QR code, you should see the site you are going to be directed to. Pay attention to the URL. For example, a Social Security QR code will always show you a secure page that has www.ssa.gov in it.
Inspect the code. Myers explains that means taking a moment to look closely as see if the QR code appears to be stuck over the top of another one. Look for signs of tampering or misspellings, even color mismatches. If something seems suspicious don’t scan the code.
According to Myers, be cautious of unsolicited QR codes that arrive via text or e-mail - Social Security will never send a QR code via text or e-mail asking you to confirm your information. Additionally, be wary of urgent requests using QR codes. They may send you a fake QR code via text or e-mail to request payment.
The question becomes, does Social Security use QR codes? Myers confirms Social Security does, in fact, use QR codes, and a couple of examples are that they use them on some of its publications as shortcuts or on signage at our field offices for mobile check-in.
Learn more about fraud and scams at www.ssa.gov/scam. If you’ve come across a scam including a fraudulent QR code related to Social Security, there is a link to report it to Social Security on that website.