Are QR Codes safe to use?

Quick Response (QR) codes are relatively easy to use and have become a commodity during the pandemic. Many more people are willing to use these codes (or forced in some cases) because of the “avoid touching” culture that continues to be embedded in our minds. The thing is that many of the new ways of doing things from the past two years will probably stick around for good. Are cybercriminals taking notice? Of course, their job is to master our behavior to then use it against us.

If we’re using QR codes, then why not modify these and embed malicious sites to steal personal information or money? This is exactly what happened in the state of Texas.

Multiple cities in Texas recently reported spotting fake QR codes in parking meters. The issue was so widespread that even the FBI had to get involved in the case. People were approaching parking meters, scanning QR codes that were placed on the equipment, and then the code would lead them to a malicious website. Users were then prompted to enter their credit card information and make payment.

Did they think twice about moving forward with this process? Probably not.

It was not until later when people checked their purchases or got an alert that they realized it was all a scam. The truth is that many of us trust that official city equipment like parking meters are reliable. And since the whole transaction probably took less than a minute, there wasn’t much time to alert buyers that something could be wrong.

The good thing is that we can learn from what has already happened and prevent it from happening to us. How do we do that?

First, we learn how QR codes work, who is using them, and what makes them vulnerable.

How do QR Codes work?

QR codes work similar to barcodes. They’re a machine-scannable image that can instantly be read using a smartphone camera. You simply have to open you phone’s camera and hold it close enough for the QR code to be detected. Once your Smartphone starts reading the code, it translates that information into data that can be understood by humans.

Who is using QR codes?

QR codes are a versatile tool and therefore used in most industries. Their capacity to store large amounts of data is definitely an attractive feature. Many businesses are using QR codes for restaurant menus, packaging, and links to websites. Many companies, especially those that are environmentally-friendly, also promote the use of codes as these reduce the demand for printing.

What makes codes vulnerable?

QR codes, like other links, can contain malware or open the door to a phishing attack. Hackers can either insert malicious links on QR codes or email attachments. And although most companies have anti-viruses software for company emails, a QR code might go unnoticed. This is why it’s important to avoid opening codes from emails, especially, if you can’t confirm that they come from a trustworthy source.

Can you spot a fake QR code?

Most likely you will not be able to distinguish a fake code. The most important thing to remember is that if you’re unsure of its legitimacy, it’s best not to scan it. Additionally, you can use this rule when using QR codes: only use codes to obtain information not to give away yours.

Consider paying with cash or make payments only on official websites and apps. If a QR code asks you for any personal information, it should be a red flag and the clue to exit right away.

What to read next – 5 Ways to Protect your Remote Access App

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Package theft

Be alert

Be discreet

Secure your car

Secure your home

Disposal

The home page on the Chicago Police website provides a list of the most recent crimes by district under “recent news“.

The post Holiday Tips from The Chicago Police Department appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Criminals target commercial lots often. They know these properties store high-cost materials. The Chartered Institute’s survey found that 92% of their respondents in the construction industry suffer theft on a regular basis. Nonetheless, security costs often influence their budgets. However, balance between cost and effectiveness can be achieved. Its still possible for property owners to secure large spaces without breaking the bank.

VinTech systems believes virtual guard is the best balance between service and cost. Let’s discuss the top five questions about virtual guard. 

Virtual Guard covers open areas.

In the past, we installed virtual guard in construction sites, commercial buildings, and auto dealerships. Additionally, we recommend the service to warehouses, schools, and any places with open areas. There is no area too big or too wide!

Virtual Guard covers wide areas.

Virtual guard covers wide areas. No area is too big or too wide! Additionally, the camera system detects motion. The system then sends signals to a live operator. Accordingly, there is no need to patrol the area or hire someone to monitor the system.

Service options

There are two main options. First, when motion is detected, a signal is sent to an operator who will then proceed to check the video. If there is an intruder, the operator will ask the person to leave through an onsite speaker. Second, when the sensor is triggered, an automated voice message will ask the individual to leave the area. In both cases, a local police officer or a security guard will be immediately dispatched if the intruder doesn’t leave.

Cost difference between a security guard a virtual guard.

Security guards receive a salary between $25,000-30,000 a year in Illinois. The cost to hire three security guards to cover a 24 hour shift will amount to $75,000-$90,000 dollars per year. In comparison, the cost to install virtual guard and hire security guards, virtual guard will be much less. 

How soon after installation will I be protected?

Your property is protected soon after your account is activated. This process takes less than 24 hours. Additionally, there isn’t training involved to operate the system.

Does virtual guard sound like a good fit for your property? Schedule a FREE consultation today! Contact VinTech Systems at info@vintechnology.net or 773-388-1208.

The post 5 Reasons Virtual Guard for Commercial Lots is Essential appeared first on VinTech Systems.

You wake up to the sound of an intruder in your home. The alarm wasn’t triggered so you are unsure if you enable it.  Did the intruder enter through the main door where the motion detectors are installed or did they managed to disable it? These following tips can help you take action to control the situation.

Don’t panic.

Remember they decided to enter your personal space. You are familiar with your home and therefore in control.

Remain quiet.

Do not bring attention to yourself. Making noise will give away your location. Don’t yell out “I have a gun or I called the police.” Even if both are true.

Lock your room.

Secure your room by locking and using furniture to block the door .

Press the panic button.

Press the panic button. This button works even when your alarm system is disarmed. However, you should know you a stress code. This is a 3-digit number that is used to secretly convey the presence of an intruder.

Dial 911 and follow their instructions.

If you don’t have a panic button, call 911 and keep them on the line while you execute the next step.

Escape through a window.

Mainly if you find yourself on the first floor. If you are not able to leave the house, your first thought might be to confront the intruder. This is not the smartest move. The intruder didn’t hesitate breaking into you home when they knew there was a possibility you were there. If he injures you, who will protect your family? If possible, find a place to hide and remain on the line with the operator until the police arrives.

Remote viewing.

If you possess a camera system and can view the cameras remotely, log in, and give a description of the subjects to police.

Even though we highly discourage confrontation, our next blog How to Safely Escape a Home Invasion Part 2 will discuss what to do when confronting an intruder is inevitable.

The post How to Safely Escape a Home Invasion Part 1 appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Their hopes are that this policy:

• Saves patrol resources and money
• Allows police to respond to more important crimes.
• Eliminates a special service to a small part of the community.
• Ends public service that created private company profits.

However, research concludes that there are no facts supporting neither this policy of its outcome.

Research

Researchers at the University North Carolina Charlotte found that alarm systems are a proven method of protecting life and property. They say that the alarms’ effectiveness based on false alarms is misleading. In fact, studies showed that the false burglar alarm rate is lower than the standard alarm. This is because an accepted standard alarm rate is .5. This means that police responds to a false alarm one time every two years. Nonetheless, in Los Angeles, the alarm rate measures at .4. This means that on average, they have one police response every three years. Furthermore, the alarm rate is calculated by dividing the number of alarm calls into the total number of secured properties. What did they find? Alarm calls only contributed to 1% of all distress calls coming in.

Alarms & Public Safety

One of the main concerns was public safety. Officials concluded that eliminating police response to false alarms would not be a good move. On the contrary, it could “produced empirical evidence that this would have a negative impact on public safety.” Thankfully, the policy did not get approved.

Conclusion

Intrusion alarms have been found to improve public safety. They are effective not just in your property but for the whole community. Rutgers University concluded that “communities that have electronic security systems installed and monitored have a measurable positive impact on public safety.” It also found that this umbrella of enhanced protection extended beyond the protected property and homes or businesses benefited from their neighbor’s alarm system. The Rutgers study also showed that crime was not displaced or moved from the protected property to another part of the community.

The post When Does a False Burglar Alarm become a Problem? appeared first on VinTech Systems.

The frightening facts:

1. The lock bumping technique can be used to open 90% of American homes. This is because most homes use an old-style cylinder lock. Additionally, when a lock bumping key is used to break in, there is no sign of a forced entry or damage to the lock. This lack of evidence makes insurance companies very leery about paying for the claim. Furthermore, you could lose everything and not get compensated.
2. Anyone can make bump keys in 5 minutes or less. Hence, children as young as ten have been caught.
3. Safety experts say it’s time to change. Additionally, they are clear about this new digital home security threat. Its time to update your home protection!

Click here to watch a demonstration of this technique.

What can you do to protect your home?

Update your locks  to a high security residential deadbolt.

Features and Benefits

1. A bolt mechanism accommodates both mortise and drive-in applications. This design provides greater flexibility and ease of installation.
2. Steel shroud protects against “ice pick” type attacks. Avoid other items. Additionally, use high security strike plates. They have a special box design with 2 screws that anchor the strike directly to the building structure behind the frame. Furthermore, these will prevent kick-in type attacks.
3. A hardened steel bolt is surrounded by a heavy-gauge tubular steel so it houses maximum resistance to crowbar attacks.
4. A solid brass design is secured with high-tensile steel mounting bolts. Therefore, it has maximum resistance against hammer and prying attacks.
5. Elevate and rotate pin tumbler design. It has false slots on the bottom pins, mushroom top pins, and a sidebar mechanism together provide superior pick resistance.

Take action now! Protect your home from the lock bumping attack its easy and relatively inexpensive.

Learn more at www.lockbumping.com

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