PNP to intensify crackdown on fake QR code scams

The Philippine National Police (PNP) will strengthen coordination with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to crack down on the proliferation of fake QR codes used in online scams.

PNP chief P/Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said Friday the move is in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'sdirective, through Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to intensify the government's campaign against cyber-enabled crimes and online fraud.

Nartatez said the PNP will step up efforts to identify the individuals and groups behind fake QR codes used to deceive buyers and sellers on online platforms.

"Bad elements are using technology to scam people, and we cannot allow this to happen. The PNP will strengthen its partnership with the DICT and the DTI in going after groups and individuals involved in fake QR codes," he said.

Authorities earlier warned the public against QR code phishing, or "quishing," in which malicious QR codes redirect victims to fake websites designed to steal personal information, banking credentials, passwords, and other sensitive data.

Cybercriminals have also been replacing legitimate payment QR codes on online selling platforms to divert payments to fraudulent accounts.

"These QR codes are supposed to simplify payment transactions on online selling platforms. However, criminals are exploiting them to victimize and scam the public for their own gain," Nartatez said.

The PNP chief urged the public to verify the source of QR codes before scanning them or providing personal information.

He also encouraged the public to immediately report suspicious QR codes to authorities.

"We call on the public to remain vigilant and discerning so that they will not fall victim to these scams," Nartatez said.