Experts: QR codes could pose cyber threats

The use of QR codes is building momentum in government. But some cyber experts are warning agencies that some of them could pose cyber threats.

The use of QR codes — the ubiquitous boxy symbols scanned by smartphones — is building momentum in government.

But some cyber experts are warning agencies that some QR codes, which direct users to websites, could take them where they don’twant to go.

Government Computer News reports, the square barcodes could lead to disreputable sites or malware.

Agencies already have plans to use QR codes. For example the Transportation Department and the EPA launched a program to place QR codes on cars allowing people to scan and find out a car’s fuel efficiency.

This story is part of Federal News Radio’s daily Cybersecurity Update. For more cybersecurity news, click here.

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