QR Codes have been popular because they allow information to be shared faster. QR Codes are found almost everywhere, from contact details to website links.
If you’ve searched for QR Code generators, then you may have stumbled upon QR Code Monkey. However, one question often lingers in your mind: is QR Code Monkey safe?
In this article, we’ll answer the question: Is QR Code Monkey safe? Plus, we’ll talk about its features and limitations.
As a bonus, we’ll also take a look at some awesome alternatives to better suit your needs.
Let’s begin!
A. What is QR Code Monkey?
QR Code Monkey is a free online tool for generating QR Codes. It offers basic customization options, like adding colors and logos.
B. Key features of QR Code Monkey
Many users love QR Code Monkey for its simplicity and the fact that it’s free. Key features include:
1. Free QR Code creation.
2. Basic customization, like colors and logo placement.
3. High-resolution QR Codes for print.
4. Downloadable QR Codes in various formats like PNG or SVG.
It’s clear that QR Code Monkey is a functional tool, but let’s address the core concern here – safety.
C. Is QR Code Monkey Safe to Use?
Yes. QR Code Monkey is generally safe. It uses HTTPS for secure data transfer that encrypts all your interactions with the website. There are a few points you should consider, though:
1. Pros of QR Code Monkey from a safety point of view
Firstly, with QR Code Monkey, you do not need to sign up (at all) to make QR Codes. It is not necessary to share personal data at all, so that’s a plus point here.
Moreover, the direct download of QR Codes created on the website keeps away any third-party risks.
Whether you are an individual, a business, or an enterprise, if you think about it, creating QR Codes with basic editing and downloading the QR Code is often not enough.
2. Cons of QR Code Monkey from a safety point of view
1. No security features: QR Code Monkey does not offer security features like password protection, expiring QR Codes, multifactor authentication, or robust data security measures.
2. No Data Tracking for Analytics: QR Code Monkey does not provide analytics, and you cannot know how many people scan your code.
3. Limited Support for Dynamic QR Codes: Dynamic QR Codes are those QRs that can be edited after they have been created or printed. QR Code Monkey offers limited functionality in this area because the QR Codes made using this tool are static.
4. Chances of Error: Without advanced features, there’s a higher chance of creating non-functioning or poorly designed codes. And what’s the point of using QR Codes if they are not functional?
So, if you want to create a dynamic QR Code, do advanced customizations such as adding background images, tracking data analytics, and integrating QR Code generation with your existing system; free QR Code generators such as QR Code Monkey fail to get the job done.
Now Scanova, on the other hand, has an entire suite of awesome QR Code features, and by signing up for our 14-day free trial, you can actually see the benefits for yourself.
Also, you can always upgrade to a paid plan once you’re sure of its usage for your unique case
D. Comparing QR Code Monkey with Scanova: Security feature breakdown
1. Data encryption
When it comes to handling sensitive data or creating QR Codes for commercial use, robust security is critical.
Scanova offers enterprise-grade security features. This ensures that your QR Codes and associated data remain fully protected.
It also uses advanced encryption protocols, so your campaigns are always safeguarded from vulnerabilities.
On the other hand, QR Code Monkey’s free version lacks advanced security measures. That makes it less suitable for business or enterprise-level needs.
This is a major limitation for industries like healthcare, finance, or education, where data security is non-negotiable.
2. Custom domains for QR Codes
Scanova allows you to use custom domains for your QR Codes. This way, you can ensure brand consistency and trust.
With a custom domain, your audience sees your branded URL rather than a generic one. This feature also improves click-through rates and enhances your credibility.
Unfortunately, QR Code Monkey does not offer custom domains, even in its paid versions.
This means your QR Codes will always use a generic URL, which could reduce user trust and harm brand identity.
3. Password protection on QR Codes
Scanova offers a QR Code security feature. You can enable password protection for your QR Codes.
This means that you can restrict access to the QR Code’s content by adding a password. It ensures that only authorized users can view sensitive information.
QR Code Monkey, however, does not provide password protection for QR Codes, making it less ideal for campaigns involving restricted or confidential information.
4. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
For added security, Scanova integrates multi-factor authentication (MFA) to safeguard your account.
This feature ensures that unauthorized access to your QR Code projects or account is prevented, giving you peace of mind.
5. Data security and privacy
When it comes to handling sensitive data and valuable campaigns, security is paramount. Scanova’s free trial provides you with the same robust security as its premium version.
It ensures that your data remains protected. Scanova abides by robust security considerations like GDPR, SOC 2, and ISO 27001:2022, which basically means that your data is in safe hands.
On the other hand, QR Code Monkey’s free version lacks this level of security, which makes it so much less suitable for commercial use.
6. Expiring QR Codes for time-sensitive campaigns
When it comes to managing QR Codes for time-sensitive campaigns or projects, having the ability to set expiration dates is crucial.
Scanova offers expiring QR Codes as a feature. This means you can set a specific validity period for your QR Code, after which it becomes inactive.
This is particularly useful for promotions, events, or limited-time offers where outdated QR Codes could cause confusion or security issues.
Expiring QR Codes also reduces the risk of misuse. Once the QR Code expires, no one can access the content. This makes your data or resources inaccessible after their intended timeframe.
QR Code Monkey, however, does not provide the option to create expiring QR Codes. Once you generate a QR Code with their tool, it remains active indefinitely unless manually deleted.
This lack of control can be a drawback, especially for businesses or organizations that rely on precise timing and campaign security.
7. Team collaboration option
Scanova’s team collaboration feature allows you to add multiple users, create teams, and assign user roles and permissions—all from a single dashboard.
This feature is important for maintaining security, as you can control who can access, modify, or manage your QR Codes and their data.
From a security standpoint, this is a game-changer. Unauthorized changes can be prevented, and sensitive data remains protected.
For businesses with multiple stakeholders, this feature ensures streamlined workflows without compromising security.
Unfortunately, QR Code Monkey does not allow team collaboration. It’s designed for single-user access.
This can be limiting for businesses or enterprises that need secure and shared access across teams.
8. Analytics and tracking
With Scanova you can have access to real-time data analytics (even with the free trial). This data is absolutely invaluable, and this feature empowers you to make data-driven decisions to optimize your marketing efforts.
Unfortunately, QR Code Monkey’s free version does not offer any data analytics. Without this feature, you’re essentially blind to how, when, or where your QR Codes are being used.
This could lead to misuse or missed opportunities to optimize campaigns. It’s like signing up for a dead end.
9. Distraction-free experience
This part is important because this is a very significant difference between the two. And it’s mostly about the ease of QR Code creation and the entire user experience of the tool.
Scanova does not bother you with annoying “donate now” prompts when you’re trying to create your free QR Code.
With Scanova, you can actually have a distraction-free experience while creating QR Codes. (Yes, that includes Scanova’s free tool as well).
So, while creating QR Codes, you can focus on what matters the most and not get overwhelmed by a cluttered interface or stubborn pop-ups.
10. Customer support
When you face any issues or have questions, you want reliable support, right? Well, Scanova’s dedicated customer support team is there to assist you literally every step of the way.
Scanova’s dedicated support team has always had positive feedback. Many websites and reviews have mentioned their awesome and quick (24×7) support.
With QR Code Monkey’s free version, you do not get the same level of personalized support.
For businesses that rely on QR Codes for sensitive or high-stakes campaigns, this could pose a risk if something goes wrong.
11. Integration and API capabilities
API Integration lets you seamlessly integrate QR Code generation into your existing systems, so whether it is your website, CRM, email marketing platform, etc, Scanova’s API plays well with the others.
This not only simplifies workflows but also enhances security. This feature enables you to generate and manage QR Codes directly within your secure systems.
QR Code Monkey does not offer the same level of integration, which limits its versatility.
What we learned so far: If you only need a static QR Code, then both Scanova and QR Code Monkey are awesome options.
But if you want more than static QR Codes, like dynamic QR Codes with features and Integrations to fit all of your needs, then Scanova is the way to go for sure by a landslide.
It’s important to note that both free and paid QR Codes have their place. A free QR Code might suffice if you are running a one-time or a casual campaign.
However, for commercial use cases where tracking conversions and accessing advanced features are essential, a paid QR Code plan from Scanova is absolutely the way to go.
Pro Tip: Investing in a paid plan could yield a much higher return on your marketing efforts and offer more security than a free one.
Also, basic static QR Code features are forever free on Scanova, and it comes with the same industry-leading security as its premium version.
So, if you want to take your QR Code campaigns to the next level, which I am sure you do, do not settle for limitations.
E. Why consider alternatives like Scanova?
The point is that QR Code Monkey, although helpful in creating static codes, lacks so much in other aspects. Tools like Scanova are very useful for businesses or professionals.
| Feature | QR Code Monkey | Scanova |
|---|---|---|
| Data Encryption | No | Yes |
| Custom Domains for QR Codes | No | Yes |
| Password protection on QR Codes | No | Yes |
| Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) | No | Yes |
| Expiring QR Codes | No | Yes |
| Secure Team collaboration | No | Yes |
| Secure Team Collaboration | No | Yes |
| Distraction-free experience | No | Yes |
| Customization Options | Limited (basic colors/logo) | Advanced (shapes, designs) |
| Dynamic QR Codes | Limited | Fully supported |
| Analytics | No | Real-time tracking |
| Customer Support | Basic FAQs | 24×7 Support |
| Free Plan | Yes | Yes |
F. Other disadvantages of using QR Code Monkey
1. Lack of Analytics: There are no analytics capabilities for businesses to determine how their campaigns are doing. QR Code Monkey does not have this feature.
2. Limited Customization: You can only change colors and add a logo, but that is about it.
3. Static Codes Only: The content of the code cannot be updated without creating a new QR Code. This increases printing costs.
4. No Scalability: For businesses with multiple campaigns, managing codes becomes a mess.
Here’s why Scanova is a better fit:
- Dynamic QR Codes: You get to edit content even after printing.
- Detailed Analytics: You can track scans, locations, and devices.
- Enhanced Customization: You can even add frames, shapes, and branded designs.
- Scalability: Ideal for large-scale campaigns.
G. FAQs: Is QR Code Monkey Safe?
1. Is QR Code Monkey Safe?
QR Code Monkey lacks many important security options, so it’s not the best choice. Generally the QR Codes are safe but you can get better free alternatives with better security features.
2. Can QR Code Monkey be trusted for sensitive data?
QR Code Monkey is safe to use for general purposes. However, it’s best not to embed sensitive or confidential data in QR Codes created on any free platform.
3. Is QR Code Monkey free forever?
Yes, the platform offers free QR Code generation. However, advanced features like analytics and dynamic QR Codes are limited.
4. What is the alternative to QR Code Monkey?
The most popular alternative is Scanova. It offers advanced features like dynamic codes, detailed analytics, and design customization.
5. Does QR Code Monkey provide QR Codes for printing?
Yes, you can download high-resolution codes for print. Only see that size and quality are sufficient for the case of use.
6. Will there be hidden risks when using free QR Code generators?
However, all free tools offer limitations- poor support and poor features. ALWAYS test out any QR Code BEFORE using.
The Take
Is QR Code Monkey safe? Well Yes. However, in simplicity, the tool is ideal only for some basic QR Code needs.
If you need more professional features like dynamic QR Codes, analytics, or custom designs, tools like Scanova suit you better because they offer scalability and flexibility, hence, very good for campaigns and professional use.
Plus, they are very safe to use and have such robust security considerations. Ultimately, though, the final choice really depends on your needs.
If you’re creating a simple QR Code for personal use, QR Code Monkey works just fine; however, if you want to take your QR Code game to the next level, you might want to look for better alternatives.