Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

Dubai Municipality has issued a public warning about the growing risk of cyber fraud linked to unverified QR codes, urging residents to think twice before scanning codes from unknown sources. In an awareness video shared on its official social media channels, the municipality said scanning random QR codes — especially those found in public places or on walls — could expose users to theft of passwords, bank details, and personal data. The authority highlighted three key safety steps for users: 1. Never enter personal or financial details on websites accessed via QR codes unless the site’s security is verified. 2. Check that the URL starts with “https://” to ensure a secure connection. 3. Avoid scanning QR codes that are posted in public areas without confirming their source. “This campaign is part of Dubai Municipality’s ongoing efforts to enhance digital awareness and protect the community from cyber fraud schemes that exploit new technologies,” the municipality said. The campaign comes amid a global rise in “quishing” scams, where criminals replace legitimate QR codes with malicious ones designed to steal sensitive information. Dubai Municipality reminded residents that vigilance and digital literacy remain key defenses in a rapidly evolving cyber landscape. ICA/Expat Media
For all the latest news from the UAE and the world, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and subscribe to our YouTube page