Referreport
A new scam is currently circulating at public charging stations in several European countries. Unknown persons are using fake QR codes to obtain credit card data from unsuspecting electric car drivers. The real codes are simply covered over, so that at first glance there is no suspicion that it could be a counterfeit. Anyone who Quck Ranswer code with his smartphone, is taken to a copy of the actual provider website, which requires the entry of credit card details.
Beware of squishing
This scam is called “Quishing” – a portmanteau word that results from the fusion of the two terms “QR” (Quick Response) and “phishing”. Victims report account debits of several hundred euros. To prevent anything worse from happening, the relevant card should be blocked immediately. According to one Media report There are already known cases from Germany, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain and Italy. This means that it is an international threat to electric car drivers. According to the report, charging station operators are also partly to blame for the problem. Instead of using secure methods – such as displaying a QR code on a screen or paying directly by credit card – they stick their links to the outside of the charging station’s casing.
How to prevent bank data theft
This can pose an increased risk, especially for inexperienced e-car drivers, as they are often not yet familiar with the design of the real QR codes from the various providers. There is, however, a glimmer of hope: many of the fake stickers are of poor quality and can be easily removed with a fingernail. In addition, the web address should be checked before entering bank details, as this can provide clues as to whether the site is authentic or a fake. Alternatively, e-car drivers should try to pay for their charge either using the official provider app or by physically entering the data at the terminal – if available.
Source: German