New scam modality in Yape and Plin: this is how they tamper with QR codes to steal your data and divert money

Attention! Currently, Yape and Plin have positioned themselves as the most popular digital wallets throughout the Peruvian territory. Their efficient payment system through QR codes It has revolutionized the way we conduct transactions, providing speed and convenience to users. However, amidst this technological advancement, a growing concern has also emerged: cybercrime.

It is essential to be aware of the methods used by unscrupulous individuals to commit theft and fraud through these payment platforms. Technology, while making our lives easier, can also be exploited by malicious people to commit criminal acts. Therefore, it is crucial to be informed and take security measures to protect our finances and personal data.

Warning of scams with Yape and Plin tampering with the QR code

Colonel Luis Huamán, who serves as head of the High Technology Division of the National Police of Peruhas highlighted that individuals create new codes that eventually become fake links. This practice, unfortunately, makes it easier to access your phone’s information. It is important to note that this method is carried out discreetly, which makes it difficult for sellers to detect the manipulation.

The QR codes Altered codes have the ability to divert payments made by customers to the accounts of criminals. This is achieved by placing them on top of previously exposed legitimate codes, creating the false impression that they are the originals. It is essential to be alert to this form of fraud that compromises the security of users.

“On the original QR code presented by the saleswoman, a sticker of her own QR code (the one belonging to the criminals) is placed. In other words, the person who goes to that establishment, when scanning that QR code, will be directed to the hacker’s own software,” the colonel told Latina.

Criminals generate fake QR codes

The High Technology Division of the National Police of Peru has identified the presence of applications on the Internet that are capable of generating fake QR codeswhich could be used by criminal organizations to carry out illegal activities. Given this situation, the authorities are calling on citizens to regularly check whether there are papers attached to the QR code, as a preventive measure to avoid possible fraud. It is essential to be alert and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself from this type of crime.

What are the recommendations to avoid this type of scam?

• When you enter a restaurant and choose to scan the menu, check to see if it has a sticker over the code.
• Use your phone’s camera to scan the codes to avoid using other apps that could be created by criminals.