Beyond Phishing: The New ‘Deepfake’ and QR Code Credit Card Scams of 2026

Easy-to-spot phishing scams are becoming less common as fraudsters up their game.

Think you can spot a scam? New AI tactics are designed to fool even the most savvy. New Africa/Shutterstock

The newest credit card scam warning signs look different from old-school phishing emails. In 2026, face-tampered QR codes (“quishing”) in public places are a growing trend. Or an urgent phone call from what sounds exactly like your bank, but is actually an AI-generated voice clone.

Some important scam warning signs are:

• QR codes placed on stickers or layered over original signs
• Payment links that redirect you to unfamiliar web addresses
• Calls demanding immediate action to “prevent account suspension”
• Requests for one-time passcodes or full card numbers over the phone
• Pressure to act before you can independently verify the request

One of the best pieces of advice is: If something feels urgent, slow down and verify through official channels. You may think you’re too tech-savvy to fall for a scam. That confidence is exactly what modern fraud tactics target.