Donegal Gardaí warn of fake QR code scam

An Garda Síochána Donegal have urged the public to be cautious when scanning QR codes.

A QR code is a square barcode that, when scanned with a mobile phone camera, will lead the mobile phone to websites, payment links, or texts.

GR codes are commonly found on parking metres for payment, restaurant tables to order, and even on banking services, such as Revolut, to share bank details for money transfer.

Scammers use this by placing physical, vinyl stickers containing fake and malicious QR codes directly over real codes, for example, on public parking meters, EV charging stations, or outdoor event posters. This is called ‘Quishing’.

An Garda Síochána Donegal shared the warning on social media, saying, “Scanning the fake code redirects you to a cloned payment portal that steals your credit card info or installs malicious software on your phone.

“Always inspect physical QR codes in public places to ensure they aren't stickers slapped over original signage!”