This alert may not be shared outside your organization, Do Not Repost or send, place on other websites, List servers, or send to others via email, including other associations or parties. Members and Law enforcement use only. Contact us for any permissions. To do otherwise will result in the loss of membership.
Complete Story
09/10/2026
Stay alert: Utility customers being targeted with new QR and barcode scams
Entergy.com
Scammers are increasingly using QR codes and barcodes to trick customers into visiting fraudulent websites or making unauthorized payments. Sometimes, this can even involve directing customers to use fraudulent QR codes and barcodes at payment centers at major retail outlets. These scams — often called quishing — work by replacing or covering legitimate codes with counterfeit ones, then directing customers to malicious sites designed to steal personal or financial information.
QR codes appear everywhere: bills, payment kiosks, retail locations and service vehicles. While they’re convenient, customers should treat QR codes the same way they treat any unfamiliar link: verify before you scan.
How QR and barcode scams work
Scammers may:
- Place a fraudulent QR code over a legitimate one on a bill, flyer or sticker.
- Send phony QR codes by text or email claiming to connect you to customer service.
- Include QR codes in fake overdue bill notices.
- Direct you to spoofed payment apps or sites that look official.
Once scanned, the QR code may take you to a malicious website prompting you to share personal details or complete a payment. In some cases, scammers provide a phony payment routing number or ask for banking information to “verify your account”— leading to fraudulent charges.
More Info
Alerts
The FRPA alert system distinguishes us from other groups by gathering and providing information to law enforcement, retailers AND financial institutions.
more information
Resources
Your electronic library to help in fighting financial fraud for all of our partners.
more information