Chase Bank has issued an urgent warning to all its customers in the United States: beware of a scam that can ruin your day. This new scam modus operandi is gaining ground and they're doing it without any compassion. Beware, if you fall for it, you could risk everything.
We're talking about quishing; scammers place malicious codes in messages or public places. When you scan them, they take you to fake pages that mimic banks like Chase. There, they ask for sensitive information: username, password, your account details... all to drain your balance.
Chase Bank takes it very seriously: don't fall for it, follow the advice
This type of scam has also been flagged by other major banks in the United States, such as Wells Fargo. They've published alerts stating that quishing consists of "fake QR codes that redirect to fraudulent sites requesting personal or financial information."
Chase Bank warns that this type of scam evolves quickly, is harder to detect than a traditional email, and can cause very severe financial losses. Although recent numbers haven't been released, the risk grows every day. The bank insists that its customers stay cautious and on constant alert.
In addition, if you lose money to a scam, recovering what's lost is very complicated, since the money passes through several hands of the scammers. That's why Chase treats the issue as a matter of utmost priority.
This is how you can avoid losing everything
Don't scan QR codes you receive by email or SMS, or that appear in unknown public places. Also, if a message asks you to scan or you click, think: "Did Chase really ask for it?" If in doubt, don't respond.
Also, always check the URL: did you scan a code and land on a page that doesn't have "chase.com"? Close it immediately and report the situation. Fourth, enable multifactor authentication in the Chase app. That way, even if someone has your password, they won't be able to access it without a second code.
Simple tips to protect yourself
To keep things simple, start with the basics: install operating system and antivirus updates. These patches usually include defenses against QR scams. Then, don't save QR codes on websites or messages without verifying their origin. If you receive an "unbelievable" offer via QR, be suspicious right away.
Also, when you use your mobile phone, avoid public Wi-Fi networks for banking operations and if you need to connect, it's better to use your mobile network. Of course, check your transactions in the Chase app frequently. Any unusual charge, contact the bank immediately.
Chase not only warns about quishing. Its notices include email phishing: fake links, suspicious attachments, urgency to "verify your account." Chase invites you to send fake emails to phishing@chase.com.
Beware of spoofing and fake calls, numbers that seem official but aren't. Never call the number you received; it's better to use the one on your card or app. Scams by SMS, messages about pending charges with suspicious links.