1746 - QRC

Here's a short bit of info about something that's invading our lives.

A QR code (abbreviated from Quick Response code) is a type of matrix barcode (or two-dimensional code) first designed for the automotive industry.

So I'm reading the Wikipedia article on QR codes and get to the end of the article and find this info...

Risks

Malicious QR codes combined with a permissive reader can put a computer's contents and user's privacy at risk. They are easily created and may be affixed over legitimate QR codes.[23] On a smartphone, the reader's many permissions may allow use of the camera, full internet access, read/write contact data, GPS, read browser history, read/write local storage, and global system changes.[24][25][26]

Risks include linking to dangerous websites with browser exploits, enabling the microphone/camera/GPS and then streaming those feeds to a remote server, analysis of sensitive data (passwords, files, contacts, transactions),[27] and sending email/SMS/IM messages or DDOS packets as part of a botnet, corrupting privacy settings, stealing identity,[28] and even containing malicious logic themselves such as JavaScript[29] or a virus.[30][31] These actions may occur in the background while the user only sees the reader opening a seemingly harmless webpage.[32]

So be forewarned about taking a picture of those cute little squares. There's no telling where your cell phone might be taking you.