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Written question asked by Mark Hendrick (Labour) on Monday, 26 April 2021, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 28 April 2021. It was answered by Matt Warman (Conservative) on Thursday, 29 April 2021 on behalf of the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.

Software: Fraud

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, what steps he is taking to ensure that the prevalence of QR codes is not exploited by people seeking to commit fraud.

Answer

QR codes are quick links which point to locations on the internet so, as with other types of links, users should avoid clicking on those which seem suspicious and be particularly wary of those from unknown sources. Some smartphones and apps enable the user to check the link address before visiting the website to assess whether it is genuine. Further information on how the public can protect themselves online is available at www.cyberaware.gov.uk.

QR codes are managed by companies and organisations to interact with their customers. Like other digital technologies, these carry an element of risk. Organisations are urged to follow NCSC guidance to manage their digital technologies against cyber threats. The government is working to set standards on cyber security, provide advice and guidance to businesses, organisations and consumers on how to protect themselves online and will mandate these where necessary.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
187147
Session
2019-21
Subjects
Software Fraud
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk