Do you think you’re safe by scanning a simple QR code? Think again. A new sneaky phishing technique, dubbed “quishing,” exploits these codes to deceive even the most advanced cybersecurity systems. How do these cybercriminals manage to outsmart our digital defenses? Discover the ins and outs of this insidious threat.
The 3 must-know facts
- Cybercriminals use QR codes to bypass traditional email security systems.
- The “quishing” technique involves drawing QR codes in HTML, making them harder to detect.
- Artificial intelligence facilitates the creation of convincing fake websites, increasing the risk of data theft.
The quishing technique
In response to the constant evolution of cybersecurity solutions, cybercriminals innovate with “quishing.” Instead of sending classic malicious links, they send QR codes to scan, thus bypassing detection systems. This method relies on the illusion of security provided by these visual codes, often perceived as harmless.
QR codes in HTML: an effective trick
Jan Kopriva, a cybersecurity researcher, recently highlighted a quishing campaign exploiting a clever technique: drawing QR codes using HTML code. This approach allows cybercriminals to conceal their malicious intentions in a format that many security systems struggle to analyze, as they primarily focus on images.
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Although this method is not entirely new, its use in real attacks demonstrates that the assumptions on which some digital defenses rely are not always reliable. This underscores the importance of constant technological monitoring to anticipate such developments.
The role of artificial intelligence
Artificial intelligence plays a crucial role in the evolution of phishing techniques. It allows scammers to create fraudulent websites that perfectly mimic the appearance and functionality of legitimate sites. These fake sites often feature apparent security elements, such as the HTTPS protocol or legal notices, making it even more difficult for victims.
As explained by a Kaspersky developer, AI-based tools make the creation of these sites very fast and inexpensive, significantly increasing the risks for unsuspecting users.
Context and history of phishing
Phishing is an online scam method that has existed since the early days of the Internet. It generally involves tricking users into disclosing sensitive information, such as login credentials or banking details. Over the years, techniques have evolved from “scam” type emails to more sophisticated methods like spear phishing, which targets specific individuals.
With the rise of smartphones and mobile Internet, QR codes have become practical tools for quickly sharing information. However, their popularity has also made them a prime target for cybercriminals. Quishing is just the latest evolution of this persistent threat, highlighting the need for increased vigilance and ongoing cybersecurity education.
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