17.03.2026 08:40
QR codes, which have become indispensable in daily life, have become a new method for scammers. Malicious software that infiltrates phones through fake QR codes captures all user data and gains access to bank accounts.
QR codes, used in many areas from restaurants to shopping points, payment transactions to ATMs, have become targets for scammers. This convenient system is being turned into a cyber attack tool by malicious individuals through fake codes.
THEY INFILTRATE PHONES WITH FAKE QR CODES
Scammers lure users into traps by preparing QR codes that appear to be advertisements or payment systems. IT expert Emre Çelikkol states that the codes scanned are often not connected to a real banking system, indicating that harmful software is being installed on the phone through this method. Çelikkol says, "When the user scans the QR code, they are actually directed not to a payment system, but to malicious software integrated directly into the phone."
ALL PERSONAL DATA IS AT RISK
The installed malicious software takes almost complete control of the device. According to experts, this software provides broad access to the gallery, messages, WhatsApp records, call history, and even the technical data of the device. While the obtained information is shared with third parties, users' bank accounts are also at serious risk.
CLEAR WARNING FROM EXPERTS: AVOID UNLESS NECESSARY
Experts recommend staying away from QR codes encountered in open areas and of uncertain origin. It is emphasized that using a card directly is safer than using a QR code for banking transactions.
WHAT SHOULD THOSE TRAPPED DO?
Speaking to Çağrı Ulu from NTV, Emre Çelikkol states that users facing such a situation should take precautions without wasting time. As a first step, he suggests deleting saved passwords on the phone, putting the device in airplane mode, and not performing any transactions. Çelikkol then recommends installing antivirus software and completely resetting the device to set it up again with a new email address.