Are QR code crypto payments safe?

Cash payments and EFTs are a thing of the past, with QR payments on the rise. All you need to do is pull out your phone, scan a code, and there you have it: payment done! This is especially true for the crypto world. Transferring your crypto and making payments is simple with a QR code, but how safe is it? 

If you channel large amounts of money through crypto channels, then knowing that your money is safe is important, right? While QR codes are convenient and easy to use, their simple nature has drawn the attention of scammers and cybercriminals worldwide. We see them in crypto casinos and in darknet markets… Is it worth it? On a scale of 1-10, how safe are QR crypto payments, and how can you optimise your security while using them? Let’s find out together.

What is a QR Code?

QR (Quick Response) codes are made to give you quick access to information. Say, for instance, you walk into a restaurant and see a QR code on your table for the Menu. This allows you to easily access that menu with the convenience of using your cellphone.

The same concept applies to payments. Bank details or crypto wallet details can be attached seamlessly to a QR code to make payments easier. Because QR codes run in a grid format, they are able to store large volumes of data. This makes them extremely versatile. 

QR codes usually don’t send information and are a method in collecting information. So scanning one doesn’t directly send information to a third party. The information stored on QR codes generally include website URLs, phone numbers, or up to 4,000 characters of text (i.e Crypto Wallets). QR codes can also be used to:

• A link directly to an app on the App Stores.
• Authenticate online accounts and verify login details.
• Access Wi-Fi by storing encryption details such as SSID, password, and encryption type.
• Send and receive payment information.
• And much more.

Once again, the scanning of the code doesn’t send the data. That being said, if you scan the wrong code, it could send out data as it connects your device to an online server.

Understanding QR Code Crypto Payments

So how do QR Codes work within the Crypto world? When a QR code is generated, a distinctive hash value is integrated into it by the Blockchain system. As users or consumers scan the QR code to retrieve information or data, the system initiates a verification process by cross-referencing the hash value within the QR code.

Subsequently, it compares this hash value against the one stored in the Blockchain. If there is a match, only then is the user granted access to the designated URL link. This stringent process hinges on the immutability trait of Blockchain. 

Once a hash value is embedded within QR codes, it becomes impervious to modification or tampering. It’s important to note that the likelihood of two QR codes or transactions sharing the same hash value is virtually nonexistent; each transaction recorded on the Blockchain boasts its own distinct hash value.

What Are The Benefits of Using A Crypto Wallet QR Code?

Using QR Codes with Crypto Wallets Offers a few Benefits. One of the standout advantages is how easy sharing wallet addresses is. This eliminates the need for copy-pasting or typing long codes, streamlining the process for both individuals and businesses. 

Furthermore, the risk of errors associated with manual entry is drastically reduced. The reliability of sending and receiving crypto to the correct address is nearly foolproof as long as the QR code remains untampered.

Moreover, the integration of QR codes speeds up the transaction process significantly. Presently, crypto transactions can involve multiple intricate steps, but with a cryptocurrency QR code, the process is simplified to a swift sequence of actions: scanning, entering the transaction amount, and sending. This enhanced efficiency results in swift transaction execution.

Additionally, the implementation of QR codes enhances security. Crypto wallet QR codes are inherently unique and impervious to replication or redirection. In conjunction with the inherent security features of blockchain technology, users can confidently entrust their crypto holdings, knowing they are shielded from potential hacking threats.

Traditionally, cryptocurrency wallet addresses are lengthy and intricate, featuring a mix of characters, including numbers and various case letters. The likelihood of errors increases when manually inputting these details. QR codes offer a seamless solution to this issue, simplifying the transfer and acceptance of funds. With a simple scan, the sender encodes the recipient’s crypto address, facilitating prompt and accurate transactions.

Risk of using QR codes

While many crypto influencers boast the convenience of QR codes, they neglect to educate you on the risks of using QR codes for crypto payments. Here are three major risks that you need to keep in mind in regard to QR code payments.

1. Malware threats QR codes can lead to harmful websites that download malware onto devices. This software can compromise security, steal data, or even hold it hostage for ransom.
2. Phishing vulnerability: Cybercriminals can swap legitimate QR codes with fraudulent ones, tricking users into sharing personal data on fake sites. This deception can lead to financial loss or identity theft.
3. Crypto scams via QR codes Scammers exploit QR codes for cryptocurrency scams, enticing users to download fake wallets or grant unauthorized transfers. These scams can lead to significant financial losses.
4. It could open a server to grab your IP/ track your location and so on. It opens doors to OpSec flaws.

Are QR code crypto payments safe?

QR codes are considered a pretty safe form of payment for Crypto. However you do need to be smart in it. You need to use the correct QR code app. As discussed earlier, blockchain companies embed a specific hash value to make their QR code distinct. This makes it difficult for scammers to copy are adapt that code. However, the risk is still there. While scammers aren’t able to easily hack this code, they are able to lure users to using their own codes. 

Can someone hack a QR code?

QR codes themselves are not directly hackable in the sense that someone can’t access the code itself and modify it to perform a different action. Since the QR code itself is just a visual representation of data and doesn’t inherently carry security vulnerabilities. However, the security risks associated with QR codes arise from where they lead you when you scan them.

Hackers can exploit QR codes by creating malicious ones that, when scanned, direct users to harmful websites, trigger unwanted actions, or compromise their personal data.

For instance, a hacker might design a QR code that appears legitimate but actually leads users to a fake website designed to steal their login credentials, credit card information, or other sensitive data. Alternatively, the QR code might link to a website that downloads malware onto the user’s device, allowing the hacker to gain unauthorized access or control.

This is what happened when Bloomberg reported the following

Hacking by QR code https://t.co/FLz8HwvTDn

— Bloomberg (@business) August 18, 2023

Tips to ensure QR code safety

Let’s be honest: There are risks that come with every payment method, including your banking transfers. But there are ways in which we can avoid or lessen the risk of possible threats. Here are a few tips to ensure QR code safety on all of your crypto payments:

• Check the URLs. Avoid misspellings as the website opens.
• Don’t trust QR codes in emails, even if they seem familiar. Set up extra security for banking and important accounts.
• When scanning in stores, ensure QR codes don’t cover legitimate ones.
• Use QR codes from reliable merchants or people you know.
• Be cautious when granting app permissions, as some can be risky.
• Scan with your device’s default camera app or secure QR code scanners to detect suspicious links.
• Keep your phone safe from viruses and malware by using antivirus apps.

Frequently Asked Questions