MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) will strengthen coordination with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to crack down on the proliferation of fake QR codes, particularly those circulating on online selling platforms.
PGEN Nartatez said the PNP will intensify its operations to identify the groups and individuals behind fake QR codes used to deceive online buyers and sellers using its expertise and mechanisms to trace and identify individuals involved in these scamming activities.
“Bad elements are using technology to scam people, and we cannot allow this to happen. The PNP will strengthen its partnership with the DICT and the DTI in going after groups and individuals involved in fake QR codes,” PGEN Nartatez said.
Authorities earlier warned the public against QR code phishing or “quishing.” The scam involves the use of malicious QR codes that redirect victims to fake websites designed to steal personal information, banking credentials, passwords, and other sensitive data.
Cybercriminals have also been using fake QR codes in online selling platforms by replacing legitimate payment codes to divert funds to fraudulent accounts.
“These QR codes are supposed to simplify payment transactions on online selling platforms. However, criminals are exploiting them to victimize and scam the public for their own gain,” Nartatez added.
Meanwhile, the PNP chief reminded the public to exercise caution before scanning any QR code. He urged users to verify that the code came from a legitimate source before making payments or entering personal information.
He also called on the public to help law enforcement authorities stop the scheme by immediately reporting suspicious QR codes.
“We call on the public to remain vigilant and discerning so that they will not fall victim to these scams,” Nartatez said.
“I-report ninyo agad sa amin kung kayo ay muntik nang mabiktima ng mga pekeng QR code na ito,” he added.
(Report to us immediately if you were almost a victim of these fake QR codes.)
