When it comes to cybersecurity and fraud, everyone thinks of hackers stealing credit cards. However, today the most effective method of fraud and damage is Social Engineering.
Especially when entering the summer months, that "cool" boarding pass photo tucked behind a coffee cup at the airport, showing your name and destination... As innocent as it seems to you, it is a goldmine for a cyber threat actor!
The Secret Inside the Barcode
You might think you are only showing your name when taking this photo. Even if you blur the letters, the Barcode (or QR Code) and PNR Number (Reservation Code) on that ticket are usually visible and are in a standard format that is easily readable by machines.
A malicious person or an obsessed follower can reach your PNR code (e.g., WX4K9P) and full name from that photo in seconds using free barcode scanner software.
What Can Be Done with a PNR? Flight or Hotel Cancellation!
These two pieces of data (PNR and Last Name) are the keys to the world of aviation and hospitality. A fraudster logs into the "Manage Booking" section of the relevant airline or hotel network site with these codes. Then, they can perform the following actions at their own discretion: - They can cancel your flight ticket at the last minute or change the date. - By updating your phone number in the system, they ensure that they, not you, have access to travel information. - They can request a refund for your return ticket and have the amount reflected as a gift voucher for themselves.
Digital Hygiene Rule: Never Share Your Ticket!
If you want to share your holiday and happiness with your friends, use a landscape photo or a picture of you jumping into the pool. However, do not post any documents containing barcodes, PNRs, QR codes, or hotel reservation IDs (Voucher numbers) on the internet, whether original or blurred. Artificial intelligence tools have now reached the capacity to reconstruct (De-blur) blocked code strings under blurred images.
A secure cyberspace is fueled not only by our corporate Oltalama Tespiti and cyber vulnerability solutions but also by the personal security literacy of the user.
Frequently Asked Questions
I shared a photo of my plane ticket, what should I do?
Delete the post immediately and call the airline's customer service to ask for your PNR to be locked against unauthorized changes or cancellations. Check your return ticket as well; if you notice any changes, report them immediately and renew your ticket if necessary.
How dangerous is the PNR code on a boarding pass?
The PNR code and your last name are sufficient to log into airline or hotel systems. With this info, fraudsters can cancel your ticket, change dates, or request refunds. Since blurred images can also be read by AI tools, do not share them at all.
Is it generally risky to share holiday information on social media?
Sharing holiday photos is harmless; however, sharing images containing tickets, reservation documents, or accommodation addresses is dangerous. Remember that you are announcing both the risk of reservation cancellation and that your home is empty while you are away.
