QR Code Scam Checker
Scan or upload a suspicious QR code and review the destination for phishing, scam, and other warning signs before you open it, sign in, or make a payment.
Avoid opening unexpected QR destinations before checking where they lead.
Scan or upload a QR code
Use TrustLens to scan a QR code with your camera or upload an image when supported by your device.
Review the destination
See where the QR code leads and review the extracted URL for common scam and phishing signals.
Decide before opening
Use the result as another safety signal before visiting the destination or entering sensitive information.
How it works
Check a suspicious QR code in three steps
Scan or upload
Scan the QR code with your camera or upload an image containing the code.
Extract the destination
TrustLens reads the QR code and checks the destination when it contains a supported URL.
Review the risk signals
Read the warning signs and recommendation before opening the destination.
Common QR code scam warning signs
QR codes hide their destination from normal view, which can make fraudulent links harder to notice before scanning.
A QR code sticker appears to have been placed over another code.
The QR code sends you to a domain that does not match the company or service.
The page immediately asks for passwords, card details, PINs, or verification codes.
You are told to make an urgent payment after scanning.
The QR code appears in an unexpected email, message, package, or document.
The destination asks you to download an unfamiliar app or file.
The website spelling or domain looks slightly different from the real organization.
The QR code promises an unexpected prize, refund, giveaway, or investment opportunity.
Be careful with QR code payments
QR codes are commonly used for legitimate payments, but a fake QR code can redirect money to the wrong account or send you to a fraudulent payment page.
Before confirming a payment, check the merchant name, recipient, amount, website address, and other details shown by your official banking or payment app.
If anything looks different from what you expected, cancel the payment and verify the QR code with the business or recipient.
Where should you be extra careful?
Parking and payment signs
Check that QR stickers have not been placed over the official payment information.
Restaurants and public posters
A QR code on a menu, poster, or sign can be replaced or altered without changing the surrounding design.
Unexpected packages or letters
Be cautious if a QR code asks you to pay a delivery fee, customs fee, refund charge, or verification fee.
Emails and direct messages
Treat an unexpected QR image with the same caution you would use for an unknown link.
Frequently asked questions
QR code scam checker FAQ
Can QR codes be used for scams?+
How can I check where a QR code leads?+
Should I scan QR codes in public places?+
What should I check after scanning a QR code?+
Can TrustLens guarantee that a QR code is safe?+
Learn before you scan
Learn how to spot QR code scams
Read our practical guide to fake QR stickers, phishing destinations, suspicious payment requests, unexpected downloads, and what to do if you already opened a risky QR link.
Read: Are QR Codes Safe? →Quick things to check
- • Does the QR code look like a sticker placed over another code?
- • Does the destination domain match the real organization?
- • Is the page asking for payment, passwords, or verification codes?
- • Did the QR code appear somewhere unexpected?
Explore more TrustLens tools
Check other suspicious content
You can also check suspicious links and messages before clicking, replying, paying, or sharing information.
Have a QR code you do not trust?
Scan it with TrustLens and review the destination before opening the page, signing in, or making a payment.
Check the QR code now