QR code phishing attacks surged in Q1 2026, Microsoft reports

QR code phishing attacks saw the fastest growth in Q1 2026, more than doubling in volume. Microsoft detected 8.3 billion email phishing threats, with QR code attacks surging 146% from January to March. These attacks embed malicious URLs in scannable designs. The report also noted other tactics like CAPTCHA-gated phishing and the use of fake confidentiality disclaimers to deceive users.