Skip to content

QR Code Malware: Hackers Use Hidden Code to Steal User Passwords

  • News
QR Code Malware: Hackers Use Hidden Code to Steal User Passwords

QR Codes Become the Vehicle for Malware in a New Technique

John: Hey everyone, welcome back to the blog! I’m John, your go-to AI and tech blogger, and today we’re diving into something that’s been making waves in the cybersecurity world: how QR codes are being hijacked as a sneaky way to deliver malware. It’s a fresh technique that’s caught the attention of experts, and it’s evolving fast in 2025. Joining me as always is Lila, our curious beginner who’s great at asking the questions that keep things grounded.

Lila: Hi John! I’ve scanned QR codes for menus or event tickets, but malware? That sounds scary. Can you break it down for me—what’s this new technique all about?

John: Absolutely, Lila. So, based on recent reports from outlets like InfoWorld and BleepingComputer, cybercriminals are embedding malicious code right into QR codes hidden within software packages. It’s not your everyday QR code on a poster; this is steganography—hiding data in plain sight. A newly discovered npm package called ‘fezbox’ pretends to be a harmless utility library, but it uses QR codes to fetch cookie-stealing malware. This steals sensitive info like login credentials from your browser. If you’re into tech automation and want to see how tools can help detect these threats, our deep-dive on Make.com covers features, pricing, and use cases in plain English—worth a look for automating security checks: Make.com (formerly Integromat) — Features, Pricing, Reviews, Use Cases.

The Basics: How QR Codes Are Being Weaponized

Lila: Steganography? That word alone makes my head spin. Can you explain it like I’m five?

John: Sure thing! Imagine hiding a secret message inside a picture puzzle— that’s steganography. In this case, hackers embed harmful code or links into QR codes that look innocent. When software developers download these tainted packages from repositories like npm, the QR code quietly decodes and pulls in malware. According to Dark Reading, this poisoned package is highly obfuscated, meaning it’s scrambled to avoid detection, and it threatens the entire software supply chain by stealing credentials.

Lila: Yikes! So, it’s not just about scanning with my phone— this is happening in code libraries that apps are built on?

John: Exactly. It’s a supply chain attack. Reputable sources like Infosecurity Magazine reported in August 2025 that attackers are even splitting malicious QR codes or embedding them into legitimate ones, bypassing email filters to spread phishing— or ‘quishing’ as it’s called.

Current Developments and Real-World Examples

John: Let’s look at what’s trending right now. As of September 2025, Proofpoint’s reports show a surge in phishing attacks using URLs and QR codes, with cybercriminals leveraging AI to make them more convincing. For instance, B2B Cyber Security noted a sharp increase in QR code phishing via emails, stealing login credentials. On X (formerly Twitter), verified accounts from cybersecurity firms like PacketWatch are buzzing about new techniques, including DOM-based extension clickjacking combined with QR threats.

Lila: DOM-what? And how does AI fit into this?

John: DOM stands for Document Object Model— it’s basically the structure of a web page. Hackers manipulate it to trick you into clicking malicious extensions. AI comes in by generating realistic QR codes that evade traditional security. The Cybersecurity Institute’s blog from August 2025 explains how AI-generated ‘quishing’ attacks are rising because they exploit psychological vulnerabilities, like our habit of scanning without thinking.

Lila: That makes sense. Are there specific cases we should know about?

John: Definitely. Rouse Consulting, celebrating 30 years in cybersecurity, warned in August 2025 about QR code phishing resurgence, affecting businesses and consumers. HackRead’s trends for 2025 highlight AI threats and supply chain attacks, including QR-based ones, alongside other dangers like SVG malware and AsyncRAT.

Challenges and How to Protect Yourself

Lila: Okay, this is alarming. What challenges are people facing, and how can a beginner like me stay safe?

John: The big challenge is detection— these QR codes hide in plain sight, and standard antivirus might miss them. Digit.fyi’s 2025 trends point to rising vulnerabilities in edge devices and evolving ransomware that could incorporate QR techniques. But don’t worry, there are practical steps. Here’s a quick list of tips based on Uniqode’s guide to securing QR codes against phishing in 2025:

  • Always verify the source before scanning— hover over the QR code if possible to preview the URL.
  • Use apps with built-in scanners that check for malware, like those from trusted antivirus providers.
  • Avoid scanning QR codes from unsolicited emails or messages— that’s a red flag for quishing.
  • Keep your software updated; patches often fix vulnerabilities exploited by these attacks.
  • Educate yourself on trends— follow verified X accounts from experts like @BleepingComputer for real-time updates.

Lila: Helpful list! But what about businesses? They must be hit harder.

John: Spot on. Enterprises face risks to critical infrastructure, as noted in Breached.company’s September 2025 report on AI weaponization. Tools for monitoring supply chains are key. Speaking of tools, if creating reports or presentations on cybersecurity feels overwhelming, this step-by-step guide to Gamma shows how you can generate presentations, documents, and even websites in just minutes: Gamma — Create Presentations, Documents & Websites in Minutes. It’s a game-changer for sharing threat intel quickly.

Future Potential: What’s Next for QR Code Threats?

John: Looking ahead, RSISecurity’s 2025 threats blog predicts more integration with AI zero-days and quantum risks. QR codes could evolve into vehicles for ransomware or DDoS attacks, especially in sectors like healthcare and transportation.

Lila: Quantum risks? That sounds futuristic. Will QR codes become safer, or are we doomed?

John: Not doomed! Innovations like AI-driven scanners and blockchain verification could make QR codes more secure. Cybersecurity News from August 2025 discusses how embedding detection in browsers might counter these threats.

FAQs: Answering Your Burning Questions

Lila: Let’s wrap up with some FAQs. John, what’s the difference between quishing and regular phishing?

John: Great question. Phishing uses deceptive emails or links; quishing specifically uses QR codes to lead you to malicious sites, often bypassing filters.

Lila: How common are these attacks in 2025?

John: Very— Hoxhunt reports over 26 million Americans hit by malicious QR links this year alone.

Lila: One more: Can I automate alerts for these threats?

John: Yes! Tools like Make.com can set up workflows for monitoring— check out our guide if you’re interested: Make.com (formerly Integromat) — Features, Pricing, Reviews, Use Cases.

John: Reflecting on this, it’s clear that as tech like QR codes makes life easier, it also opens doors for clever threats. Staying informed and cautious is our best defense— let’s keep evolving with the tech, not against it.

Lila: Totally agree! My takeaway: Scan smart, not fast. Thanks for simplifying this, John— now I’m ready to spot those sneaky QR codes!

This article was created based on publicly available, verified sources. References:

Related Posts

No related posts.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *