A subproject of The Broken Table Project

Make the
pause.

A QR code is a door with no window. Take ten seconds to check where it leads before you step through.

Before opening

Pause. Check the sticker and preview the link.

01 / Why it matters

Convenience can hide context.

QR phishing—often called qshing—uses a QR code to lead people to an impersonation or phishing page. In public spaces, a convincing sticker can be placed over a legitimate code in seconds.

Make the Pause turns that overlooked moment into a simple, repeatable security habit.

With permission from each venue, project members place campaign QR stickers only in approved locations to introduce the project and turn everyday scans into short security lessons.

02 / The 10-second check

Pause. Inspect. Decide.

Three small checks can interrupt a convincing scam.

  1. 01

    Pause

    Be cautious when a code promises urgency, a prize, or instant access.

  2. 02

    Inspect

    Look for a sticker over another code, odd printing, or signs of tampering.

  3. 03

    Decide

    Preview the address. If the domain looks wrong, close it and ask staff.

A subproject of The Broken Table Project

Make the pause
part of the scan.

Share the check with someone you know, or explore the student-led open-source community behind this project.

Meet TBTP →