QR codes have become part of everyday life.
You see them on restaurant tables, product packaging, event tickets, utility bills, advertisements, and even inside your bank. With a quick scan, they can take you to a website, open an app, or provide additional information without typing a web address.
Most QR codes are legitimate and are designed to make life easier.
However, because they’re so convenient, scammers have also found ways to use them to direct people to fraudulent websites or fake payment pages.
The good news is that you don’t need to stop using QR codes. You simply need to know when it’s worth taking a second look.
When Should You Pause?
A QR code deserves a closer look if:
- You weren’t expecting to scan it.
- It appears in an unexpected email or text message.
- Someone is pressuring you to scan it immediately.
- It’s asking you to enter personal or financial information.
- It leads to a payment request that seems unusual.
Just because a QR code is easy to scan doesn’t mean you have to scan it right away.
Where You Might Encounter QR Codes
Today, QR codes are commonly used for:
- Restaurant menus
- Product information
- Event registration
- Parking payments
- Utility bills
- Package tracking
- Marketing materials
- Mobile payments
Many businesses - including First Bank of Berne - use QR codes as a convenient way to connect customers with helpful information.
The key is making sure you know where the QR code came from.
Four Questions to Ask Before You Scan
1. Do I Trust Where This QR Code Came From?
Think about the source.
Is it:
- Posted by a business you recognize?
- Printed on official materials?
- Displayed inside a trusted location?
- Shared through a communication you were expecting?
Or did it arrive unexpectedly in a text message, email, or social media post?
The source matters just as much as the QR code itself.
2. Does the Situation Make Sense?
Ask yourself:
- Why am I being asked to scan this?
- Is this the normal way this business would communicate with me?
- Am I being asked to provide information that doesn’t seem necessary?
If the request feels unusual, pause before continuing.
3. Is Someone Creating Urgency?
Be cautious if you’re told:
- “Scan this immediately.”
- “Limited time only.”
- “Your account requires immediate verification.”
- “Payment is overdue.”
Urgency is one of the most common warning signs of a scam, regardless of how the request is delivered.
4. Can I Get There Another Way?
One of the easiest ways to verify a QR code is to ask:
“Do I actually need to scan it?”
Often, you can:
- Type the company’s website address into your browser.
- Open the company’s mobile app.
- Search for the business online.
- Contact the organization directly.
If another trusted option is available, use the method you’re most comfortable with.
What Should You Do?
If you’re unsure about a QR code:
✓ Pause before scanning.
✓ Look at where the QR code came from.
✓ Verify the website before entering personal or financial information.
✓ If you’re trying to access First Bank of Berne, use our official website or mobile banking app if you’re ever uncertain.
Remember
QR codes aren’t the problem.
Like links in emails or text messages, they’re simply another way to reach a website.
The important question isn’t:
“Is this QR code safe?”
It’s:
“Do I trust where this QR code came from?”
That simple habit can help you make confident decisions while continuing to enjoy the convenience QR codes provide.
Not Sure? Start With Us.
If a QR code claims to take you to First Bank of Berne or asks for your banking information and something doesn’t seem right, contact us before proceeding.
We’re always happy to help you verify where a QR code leads and answer any questions you may have.
Helping you bank with confidence is part of what we’re here for.