Quishing is when a fraudster creates a QR (‘quick response’) code that directs you to a fake website. The fake website looks genuine and asks you for personal and/or financial information, it could also infect your phone with malware. The fraudster then uses the information you have provided to attempt to steal your money and/or identity.
QR codes are a quick and easy way for people to reach a website. Customers scan the code, such as the one seen below, with their smart phone camera or a dedicated scanner app.
QR codes are used for different purposes, for example:
- ordering food and drink at restaurants;
- to pay a parking meter;
- for advertising (leading to the company’s product on their website);
- to facilitate the return of goods;
- to download a new APP on your TV.
- Do not scan QR Codes that you do not trust.
- Instead of scanning the QR Code, search for the company on your browser.
- Check the QR Code URL before opening it to search for signs of a suspicious link:
- Ensure there are no spelling mistakes,
- Ensure the website matches the company it is from.
- Don’t download software that you don’t understand.
- If it doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts, and don’t provide your information.
- If you think you have clicked on a fake QR code, call us as soon as possible.
Lost or stolen card?
As soon as you believe your card has been lost or stolen, please get in touch. We’ll cancel your card as soon as you tell us it’s missing and get a new card issued to your address (the one we have on file for you) in 5 to 7 working days.
Fraud, suspicious activity or unauthorised transactions?
To report online fraud, suspicious activity, unauthorised transactions on your account or ATM fraud, please contact us as soon as possible via our Freephone numbers listed below.
Shared your online login details?
If you have shared your banking details in response to a suspicious email, text, QR code or call, please notify us as soon as possible via the Freephone numbers listed below.
Report a suspicious email, text or QR code
To report suspicious Bank of Ireland related emails, texts or QR codes (both personal and business customers), send the suspicious email or text to 365security@boi.com
Emergency Contact Numbers
Republic of Ireland
Freephone: 1800 946 764 (personal and business)
Great Britain & Northern Ireland
Freephone: 0800 121 7790 (personal and business)
Everywhere outside Republic of Ireland, Great Britain & Northern Ireland
Not Freephone + 353 1 679 8993
Not Freephone + 353 56 775 7007 (Lost/Stolen cards or smart device)