It was a roaring success.
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Despite the numerical murkiness, we can agree it was a successful advert.
Yet this obscured a fundamental truth of the modern world: we really shouldnt scan random QR codes.
Its notable how many facets of the cryptocurrency world mimic social engineering scams, Max Eddywrote for PC Mag.
To put that another way, Coinbase is normalizing a potential security vulnerability.
Not a good stance for a company that should secure your financial assets.
The pandemic has seen a proliferation of QR codes, Ben Wood Chief Analyst, CCS Insight told me.
But as with all electronic interactions, users need to be careful they are not following a fraudulent link.
This is particularly true in locations where the QR code could have been tampered with.
Think public places, like car parks or shopping centers.
In these situations, a rogue QR code is similar to a phishing email.
And all the Coinbase advert did was reinforce the idea that its nothing to worry about.
So, what happens if youre uncertain if a QR code is fake?
Take Woods advice: if something looks wrong its best to double check… its a legitimate link.
In other words, Google is your friend.
Rather than following the QR code, search for the website its asking for you to visit.
Look for the security certificate.
Ensure it is what it says it is.
So, I reiterate: you really shouldnt scan random QR codes.
And, if possible, tell your less tech-savvy friends and relatives the same thing.
It could save them from being scammed at some point down the line.
