🚗 The car industry gave us these, but never knew they'd be used like this 🚙

It was 1994, and barcodes were approaching their limitations.

Did you know Reader, that a Denso Wave employee came up with the bar code-killer?

It was the QR code.

(By the way, Denso Wave is a Japanese car maker). 🚙 🚙 🚙

While Denso Wave predicted much of the world would use this practical tool…

They never foresaw it becoming so popular with businesses.

So today, most everyone has scanned at least one QR (quick response) code.

These codes are used everywhere and for everything.

And that’s part of the problem.

Cybercriminals are creating malicious QR codes that bypass anti-malware.

And now, they're going after those in large and small organizations alike, including financial institutions.

So today's message is to just get you to stop and think a bit, before scanning that next QR code.

Hackers are using those busy squares to hide malware that infects devices and steals personally identifiable information (PII).

Hacking campaigns now use them in phishing emails going after some big organizations.

Financial institutions like Chase and CapitalOne, logistics companies like FedEx and DHL, and even Air Canada have all been in the QR code crosshairs.

Human Resource departments are a big target because they have access to a lot of sensitive information.

After all, it’s so easy to scan it and go right where you think you need to be. So why wouldn’t you scan it?

26prcnt of all mal links were embedded in QRs

Well, in one case, an employee was sent a phishing email, including a QR code, from “Payroll and Benefits.”

Once scanned, they ended up on a phishing page designed to steal their PII, and then not only HR had their PII, so did the hacker.

As much as QR codes are convenient, there’s risk involved in scanning them.

One safety measure is always using 2FA when it’s available since it provides an additional layer of identity security.

Another is dialing it back a notch or two on the “QR crazy" —limiting scanning to only those that are necessary and trustworthy.

And if you think you’ve scanned a malicious QR, go directly to the legitimate website and change your password.

If you did it at work, contact your IT department or manager immediately.

Remember, like most technology we love to use, including QR codes, cybercriminals love it too but for very different reasons—so next time, stop before you scan.

Stay safe,

Your Dicar Networks Team

Many of our readers appreciate the peace they have, knowing they're protected from malware and scams through our CNVA Program (Continuous Network Vulnerability Assessment).

For just $80 a month, you can relax too, knowing that your network is under constant monitoring.

For true confidence in your network's security, call us at (408) 850-6400 or reply "Assess My Network" to this email. (Mention that you found us through this email)

Every business is different. That's why we give Tailored IT Solutions so you never have to overpay for tech-bloat.

Here’s how we can support your growth:

Strategic IT Insights – Uncover productivity and growth opportunities with our Business IT Diagnostic Worksheet and Project Planning.
Custom Managed IT Services – Gain peace of mind with IT solutions tailored to your specific requirements and budget.
Next-Gen AI-Driven Security – Protect your business with AI-enhanced, cloud-based physical security, including smart cameras, access control, and environmental monitoring.

Ready to secure and streamline your business? Let's connect today and start building your path forward.

Dicar Networks Offices are located in Morgan Hill, and San Jose, California!

Corporate Office
295 E Dunne Ave #120
Morgan Hill, CA 95037
(408) 850-6400
sales@dicarnetworks.com