Don’t Scan That QR Code Yet: The New Scam Threatening Your Phone

A new package scam started this summer, and it’s likely to gain momentum as people start ordering their iPhone Airs and buying gifts for the holidays.

I’ve discussed package scams before, especially “brushing” or padding out products with fake reviews, but this version is much more dangerous for the unsuspecting receiver. Here’s how it works and what to do if you think you’ve been targeted.

Read more: 4 Common Package Scams to Watch For

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The QR code scam and how it works

A man holds up his phone to scan a QR code on a brown delivered package.

Don’t scan QR codes that are on physical packages, even if you were expecting a delivery. 

Antonio_Diaz via Getty

Picture getting a package delivered to your front door. You may vaguely be expecting something or not even be sure why it’s there. The label doesn’t have obvious sender information, which makes it hard to

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