Smartphone users victims of scams
Matrix barcodes may contain viruses, malicious software
Shoppers scanning matrix barcodes for discounts are getting more than they bargained for — malicious software.
A growing number of people are reporting scams involving the codes, the black-and-white squares now seen on most advertisements.
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Protesters at Beijing's 798 art district call for the protection of cellphone users' privacy on Sunday. Several used body painting to protest against telecom operators — and cellphone software — that may leak or sell users' personal information. [CANG GONG / FOR CHINA DAILY] |
When shoppers use smartphones to scan the codes, their devices open a website for a company or product and often receive a discount voucher.
However, instead of receiving a bonus, many people say they have fallen victim to crooks.
Media in Shijiazhuang, the capital of Hebei province, reported on Monday that a woman had money wiped from her phone account after scanning a matrix barcode on an ad on the wall of a bus stop.
