qr code scams

QR code scams, also known as quishing, are a growing phishing tactic where attackers embed malicious QR codes in emails, documents, or physical locations to trick users into visiting fraudulent websites. On WindowsForum.com, discussions highlight how Microsoft's threat intelligence reported 8.3 billion email-based phishing threats in Q1 2026, with QR-code phishing and CAPTCHA-gated lures being key tactics. These scams often redirect to credential-harvesting pages or malware downloads, bypassing traditional email security filters. Users share experiences and advice on spotting suspicious QR codes, verifying sources before scanning, and using security tools to block malicious links. The tag covers real-world examples, prevention tips, and the evolving infrastructure behind these attacks.