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3 days ago
Is that QR code actually a scam? Here's what to know about 'quishing' before you scan
If it seems like QR codes are everywhere these days, that's because, well, they are. Thanks to a surge in popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic (new window) , these scannable codes are being used by businesses and brands (new window) for everything from payments and registrations to advertising and information. You'll see them in restaurants in place of paper menus, on product packaging, on signposts, on parking meters — and even on trees (new window) . But with success comes cybercrime — or in this case, QR code "quishing" (new window) (think phishing ... with a q). Just this week, the agency in charge of Montreal's parking meters warned of potentially fraudulent QR codes (new window) posted on its signs that might direct people to malicious websites. Last year, a similar warning was issued in Ottawa (new window) , and officials warned people who may have scanned them to check their credit card information. Enlarge image (new window) A label with a QR code is tied to an olive tree in Oliete, northeastern Spain, in December 2018. The label reads, 'Adopt an olive tree.' QR codes, which are everywhere these days, can be found in restaurants in place of paper menus, on product packaging, on signposts and on parking meters. Photo: AFP/Getty Images / Jose Jordan As cases of QR code fraud (new window) are starting to pop up, and with some officials warning consumers (new window) to take pause, you may be wondering if it's ever safe to scan those familiar little black and white squares and follow the link. With that in mind, here's what you need to know about QR code scams and how to avoid them. What are QR codes? QR codes, or quick response codes, are a type of bar code that's scannable by digital devices like smartphones through their camera lens. They typically contain information, such as a link to a website. One of the most popular uses is for payment, where the market is expected to reach $35.07 billion US globally by 2030, with a 16.1 per cent compound annual growth rate, according to a 2024 report by Allied Market Research (new window) . But just as the report predicted massive adoption of QR codes for payment, it noted that rising data breaches and security issues limit the growth. How do the scams work? It's called quishing, and experts have warned it can be highly effective (new window) when the codes are posted in credible places. QR code usage is so commonplace, and many users just scan them and hardly pay attention to where they're going, said Tom Arnold, a cybersecurity expert who lectures on digital forensics and incident response at San Jose State University and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. QR codes can be stuck on public signs, defaced websites, phishing emails, text messages and even placed into photo images, Arnold, who is also a digital forensics investigator , told CBC News. They're a great way for attackers to hide the URL or location they're sending people to, Arnold said. Fraudsters claiming to be a service provider, government agency or financial institution use QR codes in various scams to steal personal information, money or both, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) explained in an email. Similar to fraudulent links or URLs, QR codes can be inserted into emails and texts to direct potential victims to fraudulent or malicious websites, a CAFC spokesperson said. WATCH | Fake QR codes are popping up on Montreal parking meters: Have there been many cases? In 2023, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission warned consumers (new window) that scammers are hiding harmful links in QR codes to steal personal information, using everything from parking meters to text messages. Last year, the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security (new window) , part of Communications Security Establishment Canada, issued a similar warning in a publication on security considerations for QR codes, saying there's a potential for threat actors to leverage QR codes to infect devices with malware, steal personal information, or conduct phishing scams. The Canadian Banking Association (new window) also warns about potential QR code scams. That said, there haven't been a lot of cases in Canada, although experts say that could change. The CAFC said it's had just 10 reports related to QR code phishing since 2024. CBC News has previously reported on two recent incidents: the parking meters with fraudulent QR codes in Montreal and Ottawa. And last August, the RCMP in Red Deer, Alta., warned residents (new window) of QR code scams, saying in a news release it discovered some recent cases of QR codes that, when scanned, bring the user to a website that contains malware. This malware can obtain your banking information and other sensitive information. In one case, someone had received a package of luxury goods that they had not ordered, the RCMP said, and when they opened the package, there was an attached note directing them to scan the QR code. Enlarge image (new window) The QR code on a package of baby food is shown in this illustration photo taken in California on April 1. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission warned consumers in 2023 that scammers are hiding harmful links in QR codes to steal personal information. Photo: Reuters / Mike Blake Could it get worse? Kwasi Boakye-Boateng, deputy director of research and training with the Cyber Attribution Data Centre, located at the University of New Brunswick's Canadian Institute for Cybersecurity, said he thinks QR code scams are poised to become a major problem. I wouldn't be surprised if it's something that's catching on now. It's because no one is paying attention to it. And usually attackers would always find the easiest means to acquire any information that would give them a financial advantage, Boakye-Boateng said in an interview. It's also become easy for people to design apps, tools and websites that look legitimate, especially using artificial intelligence, he said. And if the scammer is well resourced, it may not even be possible to trace it back to them, Boakye-Boateng said. They can cover their tracks. LISTEN | Could that QR code menu be a scam? (new window) What are the warning signs? Experts say you should carefully check the URL of where the QR code is directing you, since that can indicate whether it's a potential scam. Hovering over the code with your camera without actually clicking will usually show you the link, the CAFC said. For instance, Arnold said, the URL for a fraudulent QR code that looks like it's sending you to TD Bank might look like this: Adding a bunch of %20s allows the attacker to hide the fact they're actually sending you to he explained. Any enticement that uses a sense of urgency is an immediate red flag, Arnold said, such as a QR code to buy last-minute tickets for a concert. In general, any unsolicited message of any type that prompts a user to scan a code should be considered a risk, he said, and lone QR codes that are just stuck on a wall or light post should never be scanned. Some scammers will place stickers over legitimate QR codes in public spaces, like on parking meters and posters. As a safe practice, try scratching the code or scraping your fingernail over it to see if it might have been pasted on, Boakye-Boateng said. If you think you've fallen victim to a scam, call the police, he said. You have to be very diligent now. Enlarge image (new window) The City of Ottawa issued this image comparing an untampered parking machine label, left, and one with a fraudulent sticker, right. CBC News has blurred the image so the QR code cannot be scanned. Photo: City of Ottawa Natalie Stechyson (new window) · CBC News · Senior Writer & Editor Natalie Stechyson has been a writer and editor at CBC News since 2021. She covers stories on social trends, families, gender, human interest, as well as general news. She's worked as a journalist since 2009, with stints at the Globe and Mail and Postmedia News, among others. Before joining CBC News, she was the parents editor at HuffPost Canada, where she won a silver Canadian Online Publishing Award for her work on pregnancy loss. You can reach her at X (new window) Instagram (new window)
Miami Herald
18-06-2025
- Automotive
- Miami Herald
AI and virtual showrooms: The digital evolution of car sales
AI and virtual showrooms: The digital evolution of car sales Car buyers today want more than a test drive and a handshake. They're looking for convenience, transparency, and a shopping experience that feels tailored to them. Thanks to rapid advances in digital technology, they're getting exactly that from some companies. The COVID-19 pandemic changed how people shop, accelerating a shift in how they buy vehicles. Online marketplaces, virtual showrooms, and AI tools now sit at the heart of how people buy cars. They've changed what both buyers and dealers expect. Allied Market Research reports that online car buying has taken off in recent years and is expected to grow significantly, pushing dealerships to adopt a more digital approach. Today's shoppers can take 3D tours, chat with AI assistants, and explore vehicles entirely online. With virtual reality and machine learning, the whole process starts to feel less like a dealership visit and more like ordering a phone or planning a vacation online. To help drivers make sense of these changes, has pulled together the latest trends and innovations shaping the future of car shopping. The rise of online car marketplaces Digital car sales platforms have gone from niche to mainstream in just a few years. What was once an option for tech-savvy early adopters is now a preferred method for millions of buyers worldwide. The numbers tell the story: The global online car-buying market is projected to reach over $722 billion by 2030. One of the biggest success stories in this space is Carvana. Known for its signature car vending machines and no-haggle buying process, the company sold its two millionth vehicle in Q3 2024. Carvana saw a 33% increase in quarterly sales compared to the previous year, proof that more shoppers are ditching the dealership in favor of digital. The appeal is clear. Many platforms now promise buyers they can purchase a vehicle in as few as three clicks, as one customer described to Halifax CityNews. Buyers can browse, compare, finance, and even schedule delivery from the comfort of home. That level of speed and control is exactly what today's shoppers are looking for So, how do these platforms work? According to KXAN Austin, companies like Carvana source vehicles through trade-ins, auctions, and dealer partnerships. Listings typically include 360-degree views, complete vehicle histories, and upfront pricing. Once a buyer chooses a car, they can apply for financing, sign paperwork online, and arrange delivery without ever stepping into a showroom. Virtual showrooms and metaverse experiences Online car shopping gives people time to think, space to compare, and the ability to avoid high-pressure sales tactics. For a growing number of drivers, that's a game-changer. Forget spending hours at the dealership and haggling over prices. Virtual showrooms and metaverse experiences are transforming the process. Automakers like Fiat and Chevrolet are bringing this new approach to life with digital experiences that meet shoppers where they are. Fiat's groundbreaking Metaverse Store Metaverse experiences use immersive digital environments, often accessed through a virtual reality (VR) device, to let shoppers explore vehicles in lifelike 3D settings. In December 2022, Fiat launched the world's first metaverse-powered showroom. Debuting in Italy, this new concept reimagines how people shop for cars by combining real-time interaction with immersive exploration. Unlike other virtual reality spaces, Fiat's store doesn't require a headset. All you need is a browser. Built with help from Touchcast and Microsoft, the platform lets users customize cars, take virtual tours, and make purchases. A key part of the experience is a "Fiat Product Genius"-a live human expert, aided by AI, that is available to answer questions and guide the process in real using the Fiat Metaverse Store reportedly make decisions faster than those in traditional channels. Overall, the average decision-making timeline dropped from 3 months to 1.5 to 2 months. Chevrolet's virtual dealership experience Chevy's getting into virtual showrooms, too. With Chevy MyWay, shoppers can book live one-on-one video tours with product specialists who walk them through features, answer questions, and show off models in real time. It works across time zones so people can browse on their schedule with no sales pressure or dealership visits. This mirrors the earlier success of Cadillac Live, which started in Canada and later expanded into the U.S. General Motors also launched a broader GM Live strategy. Still, they recently began scaling it back to refine its focus. While the GM Live rollout may evolve, the idea behind it remains strong: Give buyers more power, comfort, and clarity during the research phase. Whether it's Chevy, Cadillac, or Fiat, brands are proving that car shopping gets much easier when the showroom comes to you. AI integration in car sales and dealership operations Artificial intelligence is changing how we shop for cars and how dealerships operate behind the scenes. From customer support to marketing, AI is helping dealers work smarter and faster while giving buyers a smoother, more personalized experience. AI-powered customer engagement Some brands have gone all-in on AI. Fiat and Kia, for example, are using ChatGPT-powered assistants to answer in-depth questions about performance, features, and financing. These generative AI tools can explain specs, compare models, and even walk users through the next steps without involving a human unless needed. Many dealerships now offer 24/7 chatbot support, which handles everything from test drive scheduling to lead qualification. As explained by DealerPromoter, these bots can collect contact info, answer basic questions, and pass hot leads to sales teams. Some even have voice AI assistants that follow up with prospects and confirm appointments. Dealers are noticing the benefits. According to STELLA Automotive AI, 68% of dealerships say AI has already positively impacted their day-to-day operations, saving time and improving customer service. AI for personalized recommendations and marketing AI is also great at helping people find the right car. Platforms like track browsing habits, past chats, and budget info to suggest cars that actually fit what someone's looking for, not just what's sitting on the lot. These smart systems also handle follow-ups, sending well-timed texts, emails, or voice messages that keep shoppers in the loop without bombarding them. It's a subtle way for dealerships to stay on a customer's radar while giving their staff more time to focus on in-person service. Even digital advertising is getting a boost. AI can tailor marketing messages based on someone's interests, location, and online activity, so shoppers are more likely to see offers that actually matter to them. For dealerships, that means less guesswork, and for buyers, it means a smoother, more relevant experience from start to finish. Challenges and opportunities for traditional dealerships As online platforms continue to grow, traditional dealerships face some tough questions. Foot traffic is down, competition is up, and buyers now expect a digital experience before they ever set foot in a showroom. Declining foot traffic and shifting expectations Fewer people visit dealerships in person, and it's turning out that it's not just a pandemic blip. Many dealers feel pressured because more customers prefer online shopping and research. People want to compare prices, explore features, and get pre-approved from their couch, not a cubicle. This new behavior forces dealerships to rethink their role. The focus is no longer just on closing sales. They now also need to add value throughout the digital journey. Staying competitive with service and tech One area where traditional dealerships still hold an edge is service. But even that's being tested. Independent shops and mobile repair services are becoming strong alternatives. To stay ahead, dealerships must bring the same tech-forward mindset to their service departments. That means using AI to personalize service reminders, streamline bookings, and suggest maintenance based on driving data. Tools like these help turn service into a smarter, more customer-friendly experience that builds loyalty over time. The hybrid model: Blending digital and in-person For many dealerships, a hybrid model that combines digital tools with real-world support is the best path forward. Shoppers can explore vehicles online, ask questions via chatbot, and schedule test drives from their phones but still visit the dealership when they're ready for a hands-on look or final paperwork. This mix of tech and touch is precisely what modern buyers want. Many shoppers prefer a digital-first approach but still value human connection when it matters. Dealerships that embrace this blend can stay relevant, competitive, and customer-focused, online and offline. Future car-buying trends and innovations Digital car sales are gaining momentum, and they're not hitting the brakes anytime soon. Here's a look at the technologies driving the next wave of digital car buying. Hyper-personalized shopping with AI Artificial intelligence is poised to do much more than just answer questions or recommend cars. In the near future, AI could anticipate a shopper's needs, customize offers, and guide them through a car-buying journey that feels tailored from start to finish. According to Impel, AI is expected to play a central role in building personalized experiences that mirror the best service, only faster, more innovative, and more scalable. Imagine AI assistants that already know your financing preferences, trade-in value, driving habits, and favorite color before you even log in. That level of personalization is becoming not just possible, but expected. Augmented reality test drives Another major shift is augmented reality (AR). It lets customers "test drive" a car right from their driveway, checking out interiors, trim levels, and features using just a phone or tablet. Market Research Future reports that AR is helping shoppers get a feel for the vehicle without setting foot in a dealership. Navigating the new car buying landscape How people buy cars has changed, and it's not returning to the old ways. AI-powered chatbots, virtual showrooms, and online platforms are reshaping the experience from top to bottom. Shoppers now expect transparency, convenience, and personalization as standard. Dealerships, in turn, are rethinking how they engage and retain customers in this fast-moving digital world. With new tools constantly entering the market, the bar for what counts as a "good" experience keeps rising. For both buyers and sellers, adaptability is everything. Those who embrace digital tools-whether AI for more innovative marketing or AR for virtual test drives-are more likely to thrive. Those who don't may fall behind, and dealerships investing in tech already see improved efficiency and stronger customer connections. This isn't just a new chapter in car sales. It's a new playbook. And for those ready to use it, the road ahead looks promising. This story was produced by and reviewed and distributed by Stacker. © Stacker Media, LLC.
Yahoo
26-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Laser by Aleya Highlights Future Trends in Hair Removal as Demand for Long-Term Solutions Grows
Great Neck, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - May 26, 2025) - Laser by Aleya, a leading provider of New York laser and electrolysis hair removal services, is monitoring emerging trends in the hair removal industry as consumers increasingly seek advanced, long-term solutions over traditional short-term methods. Advancing Hair Removal: A glimpse into the precision and care behind modern laser treatments at Laser by Aleya. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: The global market for hair removal is projected to continue its upward growth, driven by consumer demand for efficient, minimally invasive treatments. According to a report by Allied Market Research, the global laser hair removal market is expected to reach $3.9 billion by 2031, reflecting rising awareness and adoption of advanced hair removal technologies (source: Allied Market Research, 2024). Shifts Toward Personalized and Technology-Driven Treatments Laser by Aleya has observed a shift in client expectations, with more individuals seeking personalized treatment plans tailored to their skin type, hair texture, and long-term goals. This aligns with broader trends where providers are focusing on combining state-of-the-art laser technology with cooling systems and adjustable wavelengths, allowing for safer and more effective treatments across diverse skin tones. "We see clients who want more than just hair removal-they want treatments that match their personal needs and offer lasting results," says Aleya Bamdad, Founder and CEO of Laser by Aleya. "As technology continues to advance, we are committed to staying at the forefront to deliver safe, efficient, and client-focused services." Increasing Focus on Accessibility and Comfort Recent innovations are addressing key consumer concerns, particularly treatment comfort and accessibility. Devices with enhanced cooling features, larger spot sizes, and faster pulse rates are improving the client experience by reducing treatment time and discomfort. As the industry moves forward, Laser by Aleya remains committed to offering treatments that reflect these evolving trends-combining decades of expertise with the latest advancements to meet growing client demand for long-lasting, high-quality hair removal services. About Laser by Aleya Laser by Aleya is a leading provider of professional New York laser and electrolysis hair removal services in Great Neck. Committed to delivering safe, effective, and personalized treatments, Laser by Aleya uses advanced techniques to help clients achieve smooth, hair-free skin. Founded by Aleya Bamdad, a certified expert with 20 years of experience, Laser by Aleya focuses on client comfort, satisfaction, and results, setting the standard in quality hair removal services. Contact Info Aleya BamdadFounder & CEOEmail: laserbyaleya@ (516) 551-8194 To view the source version of this press release, please visit Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
26-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Laser by Aleya Highlights Future Trends in Hair Removal as Demand for Long-Term Solutions Grows
Great Neck, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - May 26, 2025) - Laser by Aleya, a leading provider of New York laser and electrolysis hair removal services, is monitoring emerging trends in the hair removal industry as consumers increasingly seek advanced, long-term solutions over traditional short-term methods. Advancing Hair Removal: A glimpse into the precision and care behind modern laser treatments at Laser by Aleya. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: The global market for hair removal is projected to continue its upward growth, driven by consumer demand for efficient, minimally invasive treatments. According to a report by Allied Market Research, the global laser hair removal market is expected to reach $3.9 billion by 2031, reflecting rising awareness and adoption of advanced hair removal technologies (source: Allied Market Research, 2024). Shifts Toward Personalized and Technology-Driven Treatments Laser by Aleya has observed a shift in client expectations, with more individuals seeking personalized treatment plans tailored to their skin type, hair texture, and long-term goals. This aligns with broader trends where providers are focusing on combining state-of-the-art laser technology with cooling systems and adjustable wavelengths, allowing for safer and more effective treatments across diverse skin tones. "We see clients who want more than just hair removal-they want treatments that match their personal needs and offer lasting results," says Aleya Bamdad, Founder and CEO of Laser by Aleya. "As technology continues to advance, we are committed to staying at the forefront to deliver safe, efficient, and client-focused services." Increasing Focus on Accessibility and Comfort Recent innovations are addressing key consumer concerns, particularly treatment comfort and accessibility. Devices with enhanced cooling features, larger spot sizes, and faster pulse rates are improving the client experience by reducing treatment time and discomfort. As the industry moves forward, Laser by Aleya remains committed to offering treatments that reflect these evolving trends-combining decades of expertise with the latest advancements to meet growing client demand for long-lasting, high-quality hair removal services. About Laser by Aleya Laser by Aleya is a leading provider of professional New York laser and electrolysis hair removal services in Great Neck. Committed to delivering safe, effective, and personalized treatments, Laser by Aleya uses advanced techniques to help clients achieve smooth, hair-free skin. Founded by Aleya Bamdad, a certified expert with 20 years of experience, Laser by Aleya focuses on client comfort, satisfaction, and results, setting the standard in quality hair removal services. Contact Info Aleya BamdadFounder & CEOEmail: laserbyaleya@ (516) 551-8194 To view the source version of this press release, please visit Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Fashion Value Chain
24-05-2025
- Business
- Fashion Value Chain
Digital Textile Printing: Transforming the Future of Fabric Design
Digital textile printing is a modern method of printing designs directly onto fabric using inkjet technology. Unlike traditional printing techniques such as screen printing, it allows for high-resolution, customizable, and on-demand production with minimal setup. This flexibility enables shorter production runs, faster prototyping, and intricate patterns that were previously hard to achieve, transforming the fabric designing sector. The digital version of textile printing is more sustainable as it uses less water, energy, and dye, hence reducing waste. Designers are now able to experiment more freely, leading to faster trend adoption and personalized fashion. Emerging technologies such as pigment-based inks, reactive dyes, and AI-driven design automation have enhanced print quality and production efficiency. How e-commerce is driving digital textile innovation As per Allied Market Research report, the global digital textile printing domain was valued at $2 billion in 2020 and is expected to generate $7.9 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 14.8% between 2021 and 2030. The rapid growth of digital textile printing is significantly driven by the rise in proliferation of online retail and e-commerce platforms. These platforms make it easy for consumers to access personalized and customized designs tailored to individual preferences. The digital version of textile printing supports quick, cost-effective production of small fabric batches, making it ideal for short production runs and on-demand printing, which are suited for the fast fashion and e-commerce sectors. Furthermore, it minimizes production costs, reduces material waste, and lowers the need to maintain large inventory stocks. Notably, the demand for direct-to-garment (DTG) printing is on the rise, offering high-quality output directly onto finished garments. DTG provides greater flexibility for short-run custom apparel. The sector's potential continues to grow with advancements in ink innovation, automation, and print technology. Technological advancements shaping the future of digital textile printing The digital textile printing industry is evolving rapidly, driven by eco-friendly innovations and smart technologies. Solutions such as waterless printing have become popular among manufacturers and consumers, helping reduce environmental impact by minimizing water and chemical use. Technologies such as AI and IoT play crucial roles in optimizing the printing process. AI improves color matching, reduces ink & material waste, and alerts users about potential machine issues. IoT-enabled printers monitor conditions such as ink levels, temperature, and humidity, automatically adjusting settings to ensure high-quality results without manual intervention. Moreover, single-pass printing is another major advancement, allowing high-speed printing on large volumes of fabric in one go. It significantly boosts efficiency while maintaining clarity and precision, making it ideal for fast-paced production environments. In addition, surge in adoption of Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing is shaping the future of the industry. This method prints designs onto a film and transfers them to fabric using heat. Unlike traditional methods, DTF is compatible with a wide range of materials such as cotton, polyester, and synthetic fabrics. Furthermore, innovations in 3D textile printing enable the creation of unique textures and patterns, enhancing design possibilities. Meanwhile, smart textile printing uses conductive inks that allow fabrics to light up, connect to devices, or track health data, laying the foundation for interactive, wearable technology known as smart clothing. These advancements improve efficiency & customization and support sustainability & innovation in modern textile manufacturing. Recent developments in the sector In September 2024, Roland DG Corporation launched the TY-300 Direct-to-Film (DTF) production transfer printer, designed for high-quality, cost-effective apparel printing. The TY-300 supports vibrant, durable prints on a variety of fabrics and emphasizes user safety with advanced system controls, making it ideal for custom garment businesses. In April 2024, Seiko Epson Corporation expanded its dye-sublimation printer lineup with the SureColor F11070 and F11070H. The F11070 is built for high-speed, high-volume output, while the F11070H offers extended ink configurations, allowing for a wider color gamut and more vivid results, perfect for print shops, textile manufacturers, and web-to-print businesses. On January 30, 2024, Agfa and EFI announced a strategic alliance to combine their technologies. Agfa integrated EFI's roll-to-roll systems, while EFI adopted Agfa's hybrid inkjet printers. This collaboration strengthens both portfolios, enabling them to deliver a more comprehensive range of industrial printing solutions with enhanced efficiency and customer support. Conclusion The digital textile printing industry is experiencing steady growth, driven by advancements in technology, rise in customer expectations, and increase in focus on sustainability. Moreover, companies are adopting eco-conscious methods by using safer inks, reducing water consumption, and minimizing waste. In addition, smart technologies enable data-driven decision-making, helping streamline operations, cut material waste, and accelerate production. These innovations lower costs and enhance print quality & operational efficiency. With the adoption of intelligent, automated systems, manufacturers are better equipped to meet the surge in demand for personalized, high-quality textiles while maintaining environmental responsibility. As the industry evolves, digital textile printing continues to redefine modern fabric production, offering scalable, sustainable, and customer-focused solutions.
