Hotel innovations in summer
Summer is a time for making new discoveries, especially when it comes to hotel establishments. During the pandemic, the use of QR codes instead of traditional menu cards became popular in many of these places. Although scanning them does not seem to pose a risk in principle, in unknown establishments it could facilitate attacks on our mobile devices.
The origin of QR
The first QR codes were created in Japan in 1994, developed by Denso Wave, a company of the Toyota group, to optimize the location of parts in warehouses. With the arrival of the pandemic, their use spread enormously, especially in commerce and hospitality, as they allowed access to information without the need for physical contact. Currently, although restrictions have eased, many restaurants continue to use them as an economical solution to present their menus. In addition, various government agencies use QR codes to provide information in monuments and other places of public interest.
Latent cyber threats
QR codes are often found in high-traffic locations, making them a target for cybercriminals, who can replace them to redirect victims to malicious sites. However, there are simple steps to protect yourself and prevent an innocent scan from infecting your phone or tablet with harmful software. In hotel establishments, where these codes are usually pasted on the tables, cybercriminals can deceive us by placing a fake QR above the original. To counteract this, many places choose to use metal, wood, methacrylate or glass supports for their QRs, making them extremely difficult to manipulate. There are companies specialized in the marketing of these secure supports.
Precautionary measures
The first recommendation before scanning a QR is to check the URL to which it directs you. Additionally, it is crucial to exercise caution if you are ever asked for financial information after scanning a code. It is also good practice to physically check the QR code for signs of tampering. If so, it is preferable not to scan it. Another security measure is to avoid installing applications through QR codes. By taking these simple precautions, you can enjoy your vacation without worries about dangerous scans.
