In this issue:

• Threat of the week: Hidden dangers of QR codes

• Windows 10 ends October 2025

• Data breaches this week

Hidden dangers of QR codes

When restaurants reopened after the COVID quarantines, many places transitioned to QR codes in order to reduce the transmission of germs and staff needed to clean the menus. At a restaurant we just went to, the laminated QR code (picture below) was not in good condition. I miss having a real menu but more importantly I am cautious because of the risk from QR codes.

Criminals have figured out that most people trust QR codes without a second thought. They can replace a real QR code with a fake one, leading you to a malicious site that steals your personal information, tricks you into entering passwords, or installs malware on your device. Since you can’t “see” what’s behind the code until you scan it, it’s like clicking on a mystery link.

The risk is higher in public places. Imagine a scammer sticking a fake QR code over a real one at a bus stop or parking meter—you think you’re paying for a ticket, but instead you’re handing your credit card details to a criminal.

The best way to protect yourself is simple: only scan QR codes from sources you trust, double-check the website address before clicking (if you can), and avoid entering sensitive information after scanning.

Before Scanning

1. Check the Source: Only scan QR codes from trusted sources, such as official websites or known businesses. Be wary of codes from unfamiliar flyers, unsolicited emails, or those found in unexpected public locations. 

2. Inspect for Tampering: Physically examine the QR code for any signs of alteration, such as a sticker placed over an original code. 

After Scanning

1. Verify the URL: Before tapping the link or proceeding, check the destination URL. Ensure it's the correct, expected URL, starts with https://, and doesn't contain misspellings or unusual characters. Don't trust a shortened URL (like the one used by the restaurant I went to) unless you are certain the QR code is legitimate.

2. Watch Out for Deceptive Practices: Be suspicious of sites that ask for personal information, have poor grammar or design, or present tactics like time limits or scare tactics. 

3. Do Not Download Apps: Never download an app prompted by a QR code, unless you are extremely confident that the application is legitimate. Only install apps from the official Apple or Google stores.

QR codes are handy—but don’t let convenience become a trap.

Windows 10 ends October 2025

If you’re still running Windows 10 on your computer, now is a good time to think about upgrading. Microsoft has announced that support for Windows 10 will officially end on October 14, 2025. That might sound far away, but in the world of technology, it’s right around the corner.

So, what does “end of support” actually mean? Basically, Microsoft will stop sending out updates for Windows 10. No more security patches, no more bug fixes, and no new features. Without those updates, your computer becomes vulnerable to viruses, hackers, and other online threats. Think of it like driving a car that never gets an oil change—it might run for a while, but eventually, problems pile up.

Upgrading to Windows 11 ensures your computer stays safe and up to date. The newer versions are designed to run faster, look cleaner, and support the latest applications and hardware. You’ll also get ongoing security updates, which is the most important part.

Before you upgrade, go to this Microsoft page from your computer to make sure your desktop or laptop is compatible with Windows 11. If your computer is so old that it won't run Windows 11, it's time to purchase a new one.

If you’re nervous about the upgrade, don’t worry—most programs you use today will still work after you upgrade. It’s really about protecting your digital life and making sure your computer can keep up with the future.

Data breaches this week

Most of the time these will be companies that you don’t have any personal data with, but scan the names to make sure you aren’t affected.

Allianz Life: 1.1M records: 1.1 Million Unique Records Identified in Allianz Life Data Leak

Do you have an idea for a future newsletter? Please reply to this email and let me know.

Thank you so much!

Sincerely,
Cassie Crossley
Founder, Cyber Safe Center
https://www.cybersafecenter.com