We think you see QR Codes almost everywhere. Be it on the product packaging, restaurant tables at the restaurant, or your favorite concert tickets.
But do you completely understand how they work? Or why do firms continue to employ them?
When it comes to convenience, there is no beating the QR Codes.
Scanning one will lead you to a website, app download, or payment page.
In this post, we will learn more about QR Code basics, their working, and other things. So, let’s get started!
A. What is a QR Code?
A QR Code (Quick Response code) is not a complex system. It is a 2-D barcode with information stored in an array of black squares on a white background.
To scan it, you don’t need some hi-fi tools. A simple smartphone or a QR Code reader would do just fine.
Wondering what QR Codes are used for? They are used primarily in marketing, product promotion, ticketing, and payments.
They provide fast access without having to type anything. Cool, right?
B. Who invented QR Codes?
An engineer named Masahiro Hara invented QR Codes in 1994 while working at Denso Wave, Toyota’s sub-branch.
They were first designed to assist in tracking automobile parts during production.
QR Codes are far more efficient than barcodes, as they can store more data. They can also be read from any direction.
Denso Wave owns the patent, but they have decided not to pursue it. So, the QR Codes can be used freely by anyone worldwide.
This move contributed to its universal adoption by various industries.
C. How do QR Codes work?
The working of a QR Code is quite simple. Their information is encoded in a 2-D grid of black and white squares.
When a smartphone camera (or any scanner) reads the code, the pattern gets translated into the data, such as a website, payment, or other information.
1. Key components of a QR Code
a. Finder patterns: The three large squares at the corners help scanners quickly locate and read the code
b. Data and error correction: The black and white modules store information and use error correction to remain scannable even if partially damaged
c. Quiet zone: The white space around the QR Code ensures clear recognition
2. How does scanning work?
a. A QR Code reader detects the finder patterns
b. It analyzes the module arrangement to reconstruct the stored data
c. The action occurs, such as displaying a website or a payment gateway
D. Types of QR Codes
There are two main classifications of QR Codes: Static and Dynamic.
The codes that are fixed and unchangeable are static. Meanwhile, Dynamic QR Codes’ content can be updated and tracked. This offers seamless flexibility without needing a new code.
1. Static QR Codes
Static QR Codes store permanent information. Once generated, the data inside cannot be changed.
They are suitable for simple, long-term applications such as providing internet links, Wi-Fi credentials, or contact information.
Because they don’t use a database, they load rapidly but do not provide tracking or analytics.
a. Common Types of Static QR Codes:
- URL QR Codes: Such QR Codes enable users to be directed to a particular webpage. It may be a site, landing page, or advertising content
- Text QR Codes: Such QR Code displays plain text on the screen. It is ideal for passing instructions, serial numbers, or brief messages
- Email QR Codes: To assist in sending inquiries, the email draft already contains the recipient, subject, and email body
- Wi-Fi QR Codes: Using this QR Code, you can get connected to the WiFi without having to type a single thing
- vCard QR Codes: When you scan this QR Code, you can save a person’s contact directly to your phone without typing anything
2. Dynamic QR Codes
Always opt for a Dynamic QR Code when you want flexibility, such as updating your content even after printing it. With built-in tracking support, they are ideal for marketing campaigns, business use cases, and more.
b. Common Types of Dynamic QR Codes:
- Website QR Codes: They are flexible compared to static QR Codes, which are unchangeable and must be reprinted whenever you want to switch the links. These can be updated anytime, helping you make the changes without the associated reprinting costs.
- App Download QR Codes: These QR Codes detect the user’s (Android or iOS) device and send them to the correct app store for easy downloading.
- Multi-URL QR Codes: These QR Codes point to different links according to a user’s location, device type, or language based on their preferences. This feature offers them a personalized experience
- Social Media QR Codes: With the help of this QR Code, the user can easily follow a brand on their different social media platforms.
Both Static and Dynamic QR Codes have their advantages.
If you require a basic, static QR Code, use Static. Dynamic QR Codes are the best option if you need the functionality to track scans, update content, and optimize user interaction.
E. How to create a QR Code?
It is easy to make a QR Code once you select a QR Code generator.
Here’s how you can get one:
1. Select a QR Code generator
There are many QR Code generators available online, such as Scanova. Choose the one that fits your needs the best.
2. Choose the content type
Now, choose the QR Code type according to the end destination you want the users to reach. It could be a website, pdf, or a WiFi password.
3. Add the information
Enter the required information, like the URL or the text you wish to show the end users.
4. Personalize the QR Code (optional)
Certain generators enable you to alter the color, insert a logo, or modify the pattern to suit your brand or design needs.
5. Create and test the QR Code
Click on the generate button to get your QR Code. Testing and scanning it using different smartphones (Android and iOS) before proceeding is a good practice.
6. Download and share
Save the QR Code in an appropriate format (PNG, SVG, or PDF) and use it on printouts, digital devices, or product packaging.
F. How to scan a QR Code?
Scanning a QR Code is straightforward and takes no effort.
Depending on your device and preferences, you can utilize a smartphone camera, third-party software, or even a desktop option.
Here is how:
1. Using a smartphone camera (iOS & Android)
The default camera software on most smartphones comes with a built-in QR Code scanner.
- For iPhones (iOS 11 and later): Point the camera app at the QR Code after opening it. To access the content, press the notification that appears
- For Android phones: Many Android devices also have native support. Open the Camera app, point it at the QR Code, and tap the link that appears. Check if Google Lens is enabled in the camera settings; if nothing happens
2. Using Google Lens or a QR Code scanner app
If your phone camera cannot scan QR Codes, you can use:
- Google Lens: Scan a QR Code to open or view the Google Lens app after using Google Assistant
- Third-Party QR Code reader applications: Third-party applications such as QR & Barcode Scanner and QR Code Reader also read QR Codes efficiently
3. Scanning a QR Code on a desktop or laptop
If you need to scan a QR Code on a computer screen, you can use:
- Google Lens (via Chrome): Google Chrome users can access the URL by right-clicking the QR Code and choosing “Search image with Google Lens”
- Web-based scanners: QR Codes may be scanned with a camera thanks to websites like WebQR
G. Are QR Codes safe?
Natively, QR Codes are not dangerous in themselves. But also, their safety depends on how you use them.
Following is a list of potential hazards and safety measures:
1. Potential risks of QR Codes
a. Phishing attacks
Cybercriminals mostly use QR Codes to redirect users to fraudulent websites. They steal sensitive information such as personal data, login credentials, etc.
These phishing sites look close to legitimate websites, which easily tricks the users. QR Code phishing attacks are much harder to detect, as users cannot preview the link/content before accessing it.
b. Malware downloads
Malicious QR Codes are programmed to initiate automatic downloads of malware, ransomware, or spyware on a user’s device.
These QRs can easily compromise personal data, monitor user activity, and lock devices remotely. Scanning QR Codes from unverified sources leads to these incidents.
c. QR Code spoofing
Cases of QR Code spoofing have increased in numbers over the past few years.
In this case, cybercriminals place their fraudulent QR Codes over the original ones. These types of tactics are commonly used in public places where business have their QR Codes for one purpose or the other.
The scam website looks similar to the original but is designed to steal vital information or funds.
d. Payment fraud
In this fraud, scammers change the destination of the payment QR Code. So, you pay an unauthorized account instead of paying a legitimate merchant.
This is particularly risky in peer-to-peer transactions or informal payment setups, where most users do not check the transaction details.
2. How to stay safe while scanning QR Codes
a. Verify the source
Make it a habit to scan QR Codes only from trusted sources. Scan the QRs from a reputed website that is official and secure.
Scanning QR Codes at a physical location? Always verify with staff before you take any action.
b. Preview the link
Most modern smartphones preview the URL before directing users to a webpage. So, before proceeding, always check the URL for authenticity.
Avoid clicking if the link seems unusual or differs from the company’s official website.
c. Enable device security
Keep your phone’s security and OS updated to stay safe from potential dangers. Regularly updating your smartphone’s OS helps protect against cyber threats and malware.
Also, enabling built-in security features like Google Play Protect or App Store security settings further reduces risks.
3. Are QR Codes secure for businesses?
Yes, businesses can ensure QR Code safety by:
a. Using dynamic QR Codes with controlled redirections
Unlike static QR Codes with fixed information, dynamic QR Codes allow businesses to change the destination URL without modifying the QR Code.
This helps prevent misuse, as businesses can redirect users to a different page if a security issue arises.
Additionally, dynamic QR Codes offer analytics and tracking capabilities, allowing companies to monitor scans and detect any unusual activity.
b. Securing payment QR Codes with encryption
Businesses that use QR Codes for financial transactions should implement encryption and security protocols to prevent fraud.
Payment platforms like PayPal, Google Pay, and Apple Pay use encrypted QR Codes that require authentication before transaction processing.
Implementing two-factor authentication (2FA) can further enhance security.
c. Displaying QR Codes on official brand channels to prevent tampering
To reduce the risk of QR Code tampering, businesses should only display QR Codes on official websites, social media accounts, and physical locations where they have complete control.
Using tamper-resistant materials or digital watermarking techniques for printed QR Codes can help prevent unauthorized modifications.
Bottom line
QR Codes are safe when used properly, but users should always exercise caution. Cybersecurity risks can be avoided by checking links and scanning from reliable sources.
QR Codes can be employed for augmented reality (AR) applications. A QR Code can be scanned to initiate an AR overlay that enables users to interact with virtual objects or retrieve further information in a live environment. Source: encstore
H. Why do QR Codes matter?
Because QR Codes integrate the real and virtual worlds so elegantly, they are an intrinsic part of the digital era.
They are an integral part of contemporary technology infrastructure, utilized across markets as disparate as retail and advertising via logistics and healthcare.
1. Facilitating seamless information exchange
QR Codes provide fast access to digital content by removing the need for human data entry. When businesses employ QR Codes to offer product details, promotional discounts, or multimedia material with a single scan, this efficiency benefits consumer engagement.
2. Enhancing contactless transactions
As mobile wallets and online transactions are on the rise, QR Codes have become a convenient and secure means of payment.
Consumers like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and UPI in India leverage QR Codes to facilitate cashless, real-time payments with less cash and transactional friction dependence.
3. Optimizing business operations
QR Codes simplify operational procedures in anything from ticketing systems to inventory management.
They make real-time tracking possible, increase the effectiveness of logistics, and lower the errors that come with manual data entry.
QR Codes make it easier to identify patients, verify prescriptions, and access electronic medical records in the healthcare industry.
4. Revolutionizing marketing and consumer engagement
QR Codes are placed on billboards, packages, and print ads by marketers and distributed among consumers.
QR Codes also allow measurable engagement in that they drive links to landing pages, video views, or app downloads, and businesses can follow what people are doing with this engagement and act upon it accordingly.
5. Strengthening security and authentication
Secure access control systems, digital verification, and two-factor authentication (2FA) depend on QR Codes.
To stop fraud and illegal access, they are being utilized increasingly in identity verification, boarding cards, and event ticketing.
6. Driving smart technology integration
QR Codes enable simple device-to-device communication as the Internet of Things (IoT) picks up pace.
QR Codes enhance the user experience through setup, diagnostics, and user configuration simplified for smart home appliances, automobiles, and industrial equipment. QR Codes are commonly used for ticketing and event management.
QR Codes are commonly used for ticketing and event management. They can generate electronic tickets, boarding passes, and event registrations. Scanning a QR Code can quickly validate the ticket or registration and provide access to the event. Source: encstore
I. Best practices: QR Code basics
Organizations and individuals must follow best practices to maximize the security and effectiveness of QR Codes. A thoughtful QR Code strategy protects against exploitation while ensuring a seamless user experience.
1. Use a clear and compelling call-to-action (CTA)
A QR Code alone won’t drive engagement. Accompany it with a clear instruction, such as:
- “Scan to get 10% off”
- “Scan to view the menu.”
- “Scan to register for the event.”
This guides users on what to expect and increases scan rates.
2. Ensure the QR Code links to mobile-friendly content
The related content must be optimized for mobile phones since users read QR Codes using their phones. To provide a better user experience, ensure pages load fast, the layout is responsive, and there are not too many redirects.
3. Use Dynamic QR Codes for flexibility
With dynamic QR Codes, you may modify the destination URL without printing the code again. This is perfect for business operations, marketing initiatives, and promotions where updates can be required.
4. Brand your QR Codes for recognition
Brand colors and logos added to custom QR Codes increase engagement and trust. A professionally designed QR Code gives customers confidence that scanning it is secure.
5. Test before printing or publishing
Always scan your QR Code with several devices and applications to ensure it functions properly. By doing this, mistakes that can result in broken links or subpar user experiences are avoided.
6. Ensure QR Code security
To prevent fraud and phishing risks:
- Use trusted QR Code generators
- Enable HTTPS for linked URLs
- Avoid linking to sensitive data without authentication
- Monitor scans using analytics to detect suspicious activity
7. Track and analyze performance
Track user interaction, locations, and scans using QR Code tracking. Analytical insights aid in campaign improvement and ROI enhancement.
Brands that trust us:
Summing Up
QR Codes simplify digital interactions across industries, from marketing and payments to logistics and security. Their success depends on proper implementation—using dynamic codes, ensuring mobile-friendly content, and prioritizing security.
QR Codes increase productivity, ease of use, and engagement when used effectively. Despite technological advancements, they still offer a strong connection between the actual and virtual worlds.