Imposter scams are surged in 2025, especially IRS scams using gift cards, QR codes, and AI. Learn how to spot fake notices and avoid identity theft.

Your phone buzzes. A text message pops up saying you have an outstanding traffic violation, and if you scan the attached QR code immediately, you can pay a $6.99 balance and avoid a court appearance.

QR codes that were once seen as a convenient shortcut for checking menus or paying bills have increasingly been turned into weapons. Fake delivery texts, counterfeit payment links and malicious codes ...

QR (Quick Response) codes are everywhere these days. You'll spot them on restaurant menus, business cards, product packages, and even concert tickets. A big reason they've caught on is convenience.