📲 SCAN SMART: Stay Safe When Scanning QR Codes

QR codes make life easier — but like anything online, they can be misused. Here's how to scan smart and stay protected when discovering local offers, menus, or services.

✅ Before You Tap the Link:  Because we can never be too careful.  

🔍 Look at the URL preview
When you scan, your phone should show you the website address before opening it.
Does it look right?
YES ✅ www.pittsborobakery.com
NOT GOOD 🚫 www.pittsboro-bakery.loginverify.ru  the domain here ends with loginverify.ru

Hooked on Local official links look like this
✅ hol.chq.me/123456 or chq.me/123456
✅  where the domain name always ends with chq.me/destination page name/number

🔗 Avoid strange or shortened links
If the link looks like bit.ly/xyz123, it’s harder to know where it’s going. Be extra cautious.

🧼 Check the code placement
Is the QR code printed directly on a flyer or sticker? Or does it look like someone stuck it over another code? Tampering is rare, but possible.

🚫 Never do this after scanning:

• ❌ Don’t enter your password, payment info, or personal details unless you're absolutely sure it’s a trusted site.

• ❌ Don’t install apps unless you're redirected to the official app store (Apple or Google Play).

• ❌ Don’t ignore your gut — if something feels off, it probably is.

🛡 Extra Tips:

• Your phone should shows full link previews before tapping.

• Make sure your device’s browser security features are turned on.

• When in doubt, ask the business directly if the QR code is legit.

💬 Scan & Discover with Confidence

At Hooked on Local, we believe in safe, simple, and smart scanning. Our QR codes always lead to local content, never ads or tracking sites.
If you ever see a suspicious code using our brand, let us know right away at .

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