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QR codes — it stands for Quick Response — pop up frequently. TV ads, restaurant menus and much more rely on these little squares of blocky lines to quickly link a smartphone user to handy information, a download or as a way to digitally send money to someone.

The FBI, however, has warned that cybercriminals may tamper with the codes. The FBI offers a few tips so you can take advantage of QR codes while staying safe and secure:

* After sending a QR code, check the URL to make sure it is the site you want. A malicious domain name may be similar to the intended URL but with typos or a misplaced letter.

* Be cautious when entering login, personal or financial information.

* If scanning a physical QR code, ensure the code shows no signs of tampering, such as a sticker placed over the original.

* Do not download an app from a QR code.

* If you receive an email asking you to complete a payment through a QR code, call the requesting company to verify. Look up the company’s number on a trusted site — don’t use the number from the email.

* Do not download a QR code scanner app — the built-in phone camera is a safer option.

* If you receive a QR code you believe to be from someone you know, contact them through a known number or address to verify.

* Avoid making payments through a site navigated to from a QR code. Instead, manually enter a known and trusted URL to complete the payment.