You may have seen them on other social media platforms, but QR code scams are now targeting Discord servers. These messages, which appear from other users, ask you to scan a QR code to log in. However, if you do this, you could lose access to your account and see your contacts spammed with the same message. In this article, we’ll tell you how to avoid these scams and what to do if you think you’ve been scammed.
Tips to keep your Discord account secure
Enable two-factor authentication
Two-factor authentication (also known as two-step verification) adds an extra layer of security to your account. With this enabled, you’ll need to enter a code from your authenticator app whenever you log in. This means that even if someone has your password, they won’t be able to log into your account unless they also have access to your phone.
Don’t reuse passwords
It’s important to use different passwords for different accounts. That way, if one of your passwords is compromised, the attacker won’t automatically have access to all of your other accounts. Use a password manager like LastPass or Dashlane to help you keep track of all your different passwords.
Be careful what information you share
Be mindful of the information you share on Discord and other social media platforms. Attackers can use this information to guess their passwords or answer security questions.
Use Privacy and Safety settings
Discord has several settings that let you control who can message you, who can see your online status and more. These settings can help you avoid unwanted messages and stay safe while using Discord.
Make use of the block and friend request features
If you receive a friend request or message from someone you don’t know, you can block them. This will prevent them from sending you any further messages. You can also remove them from your server if they’re already members.
Report hacked and suspicious accounts
If you think an account has been hacked or receive a suspicious message, report it to Discord. You can do this by right-clicking on the user’s name and selecting “Report.”
Don’t click on links from people you don’t know
Even if the message appears from a friend, their account may have been hacked. Don’t click on the link if you’re unsure whether it is safe. You can always ask your friend if they sent you a message before clicking on anything.
If you think you’ve been scammed
If you think you may have been scammed, you should first change your password and enable two-factor authentication. Then, report the incident to Discord’s Trust & Safety team. You can do this by going to User Settings > Privacy & Safety > Report User.
This article has helped you understand how to avoid QR code scams on Discord. For more tips on staying safe online, check out our other articles on internet safety. And if you’re looking for a secure way to chat with your friends, be sure to check out our list of the best certain messaging apps.
