Expert issues airport WiFi scam warning amid flight delays
A tech expert urges passengers to think twice before using airport WiFi to Google alternative flights, departure times, or purchase new tickets.
Marc Porcar, CEO of QR Code Generator warns that passengers who use free WiFi to search for information regarding a flight delay while in the airport are at a heightened risk of being targeted by scammers.
The expert says: “Many free WiFi networks don’t use secure encryption, which means that hackers can intercept data sent between your phone, laptop, or tablet, and the WiFi router. From here, they can steal your personal data - including passwords, emails, or credit card details - or inject malicious software.
“This may include fake pop-ups that prompt you to download an app that shows ‘updated’ flight departure times, or that redirect you to fake versions of real airline sites that they then use to steal your login credentials or payment information.
“Airports see tourists casually browse the web with open devices and business travellers who access sensitive work data, making them a prime location for scammers. Passengers are often in a rush, distracted, or bored, which can see them click links quickly without thinking.
“People tend to trust free WiFi when it’s in a secure setting like an airport or train station, and when you consider many travellers will be tired from travel or waiting in queues, it’s understandable that scammers take advantage of those who access banking apps, email accounts, or social media over an unsecured network.”
And with tourists heading to holiday hotspots like France and Italy receiving warnings of flight delays in the last month, it’s highly likely that passengers experiencing similar disruption will use free WiFi to search for related information.
QR Code Generator’s Marc continues: “Scammers can create lookalike websites, ads, or apps that offer to rebook a cancelled flight, find you a new travel route, or handle delay compensation on your behalf - but that actually steal your personal details, or even charge a ‘service fee’ but then don’t provide you with the service you’ve paid for.
“You may receive a message with a linked prompt like ‘claim your compensation here’ that takes you to a phishing site that asks for your passport, booking number, or bank information. In some airports, you may be encouraged to scan QR codes for flight updates, but these may have been tampered with and direct you to fake sites.
“Only use official airline websites or apps to keep up-to-date with departure times, and be extremely sceptical of any ads or QR codes that offer to assist with delay compensation. If at all possible, it’s best to avoid inputting any personal details on a public WiFi network while in the airport or on the plane - wait until you get home.”