Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office warns of fake QR code scam targeting residents

Fort Bend County residents are being warned about a scam involving fake QR codes that could put personal and financial information at risk.

The Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office issued a scam alert warning residents to be cautious before scanning QR codes, particularly those posted in public places or sent unexpectedly.

Scammers can place a fake QR code over a legitimate one or send someone a QR code that appears to be connected to a trusted service.

When scanned, the code can send users to a fraudulent website designed to look legitimate. The site may then ask for sensitive information, including passwords, credit card numbers or other personal details.

The FBI has previously warned that scammers can also use QR codes to trick people into downloading malicious software that can steal information from their phones.

The Federal Trade Commission has also warned about scammers placing fake QR codes over legitimate codes, including on parking meters. The FTC recommends checking the web address before entering any information.

How to protect yourself

Officials recommend taking a few extra steps before scanning a QR code:

• Check the QR code and make sure it hasn’t been placed over another code.
• Look at the web address before entering any personal or financial information.
• Be cautious of QR codes received unexpectedly through email, text messages or packages.
• Don’t enter passwords, Social Security numbers or financial information on a website you reached through a suspicious QR code.
• Keep your phone’s operating system and apps updated.
• Use strong passwords and multifactor authentication on your accounts.

If you believe you’ve scanned a fraudulent QR code, the FTC recommends changing any compromised passwords, reviewing bank and credit card accounts for suspicious activity and reporting the scam to the agency.

The Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office has issued multiple scam warnings to residents in recent months, including alerts about jury duty and bail bond scams.

Residents who need to contact the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office can call its non-emergency number at 281-341-4665.