QR codes have become ubiquitous in recent years, allowing us to easily access websites, make payments, check into events, and more with just a quick scan of our phones. However, you may have run into issues trying to use your personal QR code, such as getting error messages that it can’t be read or the link not working properly. There are a few common reasons your QR code may not be working.
The code is damaged or obscured
Like barcodes, QR codes can become unusable if they are damaged, faded, creased, or otherwise obscured. The QR code needs to be clearly visible for the scanner to be able to read it accurately. Make sure your code is printed on a high quality material with durable ink that won’t rub off or fade over time. Avoid creasing the paper or covering part of the code with stickers or your fingers when scanning. A damaged or obscured code simply won’t scan properly.
The code was generated incorrectly
There are many free QR code generator sites and apps available, but some may produce codes that don’t actually work when scanned. This could be due to bugs in the generator or because the options weren’t configured correctly. Double check that you used a reputable generator and selected the right options for the type of content you want the code to link to. For example, you may have generated a vCard code instead of a URL by mistake. Regenerating the code properly should resolve this issue.
The URL or other content is invalid
Most QR codes simply contain a URL to launch a specific web page. If that URL is typed incorrectly when generating the code, moved, or taken down entirely, then scanning the code will lead to an error or broken page. Always double check that the URL is active and free of typos before finalizing your QR code. This applies for phone numbers, SMS content, emails, and other scannable data as well. Having the right link will ensure your code works as intended.
The code hasn’t been optimized for scanning
To ensure reliable and quick scanning, QR codes should be optimized for the capabilities of scanner apps and devices. There are best practices around minimum size, color contrast, image resolution, and use of logos/images within the code. An unoptimized code may scan poorly or not at all in less than ideal conditions. Use a generator that lets you customize size and other options for optimal scanability.
The scanner app is out of date or incompatible
Most modern smartphone cameras can scan QR codes when using a built-in scanner app. But if your app is very outdated or from an obscure third party developer, it may not support all QR code types and features. For example, an older app may not recognize newer QR code formats. Make sure you’re using the latest version of a reputable scanner app like Google Lens to rule out any compatibility issues.
There’s an issue with your phone’s camera
A smartphone with camera damage, very low resolution, or dirt/debris blocking the lens may also have trouble accurately capturing and reading your QR code. Try cleaning the camera lens and make sure there are no cracks, scratches, or other defects that could interfere with scanning. Move to a well lit area, steady your hands, and hold the camera closer to capture the code clearly. If your phone’s camera quality is just too low, try scanning with a different mobile device instead.
The code was never activated or linked
Some QR codes are created as placeholders and need to be activated before they will work properly. For example, you may be sent a code that only becomes active once a certain event occurs. Or certain Wi-Fi, membership, and access codes need linking to your account before they can be scanned. Make sure any required activation or linking steps have been completed so the code becomes functional for scanning.
You’re scanning the wrong code
It’s easy to get multiple QR codes mixed up, especially if they are printed close together on a flyer or event pass. Double check that the code you are trying to scan matches the thing you are trying to link or access. Having two similar looking codes side by side often leads to accidental scanning of the wrong one. Just take a closer look and scan the proper code instead.
Conclusion
QR codes offer a quick and convenient way to open web pages, share contact info, make payments, check in, and much more. But they only work properly when generated, printed, and scanned correctly. Damaged, invalid, or incompatible codes simply won’t function as intended. If your QR code isn’t working, carefully check for any of the issues covered above. In most cases, you can easily fix the problem and get your code scanning correctly once again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my QR code not working when I try to scan it?
There are a few common reasons your QR code may not scan properly: the code is damaged/obscured, generated incorrectly, links to invalid content, hasn’t been optimized for scanning, or there are compatibility issues with the scanner app. Checking for these issues should help identify why your code isn’t functional.
How can I fix a QR code that won’t scan?
First, rule out physical damage to the printed code. Then verify the URL or other content linked to the code is valid and free of typos. Regenerate the code if necessary using a trusted QR generator, double checking the options are configured correctly. Make sure to optimize the new code for scanability. Also update your scanner app and try scanning with multiple devices.
Why do I get an error message when scanning a QR code?
Error messages when scanning a code typically mean the code links to invalid or restricted content, such as a broken URL or inactive phone number. Verify the linked content works and regenerate the code if needed. Network connection issues can also sometimes cause scanning errors.
Can damaged QR codes be fixed?
Unfortunately QR codes cannot be repaired if they are damaged enough to impair scanning. Even minor tearing or markings in key areas of the code can prevent proper scanning. The only option is to regenerate and reprint the code completely if it becomes too physically damaged to function.
What causes a QR code to become invalid or stop working?
The most common reason a valid QR code stops working is because the URL or other linked content gets changed or taken down. Outdated or improperly generated codes could also never work properly in the first place. Regularly checking and updating code links is recommended.
Tips for Creating Working QR Codes
Follow these tips when creating QR codes to ensure the best results:
- Use a trusted, reputable QR code generator site or app
- Double check that all data inserted into the code is accurate
- Set minimum size to at least 1.5 inches for optimal scanning
- Print codes in high resolution on matte paper or vinyl
- Avoid covering any part of the code with logos, images or folds
- Test scan each code after printing to verify functionality
- Check and update links regularly to keep codes working over time
Common QR Code Troubleshooting Steps
Try these basic troubleshooting steps if your QR code is not working:
- Clean scanner camera lens and scan again
- Print code larger or enhance contrast if needed
- Download latest scanner app and scan again
- Double check URL/data encoded in code is valid
- Regenerate code with accurate info if necessary
- Try scanning on another mobile device
- Check for scanner app compatibility issues
- Contact code creator if issues persist
QR Code Scanning Tips
Use these tips for the best experience scanning QR codes:
- Make sure you have adequate lighting
- Hold camera steadily about 6 inches from code
- Center code carefully within viewfinder
- Avoid casting shadows over the code
- Turn off glare reducing screen filters
- Clean scanner lens regularly
- Update scanner app frequently for compatibility
- Be patient and hold camera on code until scan completes
QR Code Uses and Examples
QR codes can be scanned to:
- Visit a website
- Connect to WiFi
- Open an app
- Play a video
- View a PDF file
- Add a contact
- Call a phone number
- Send an SMS/text message
- Send an email
- Save or bookmark information
- Check in/verify attendance
- Complete a payment
- View coupon or discount code
- Navigate to a geographic location
Example uses of QR codes:
- Restaurant menus and digital ordering
- Product packaging and labels
- Marketing flyers/posters/billboards
- Business cards and resumes
- Event tickets, passes, and name badges
- Signage and instruction manuals
- Retail checkout and payments
- WiFi login pages
- Classroom materials and assignments
- Real estate listings
- Website featured content
- Productauthentication and tracking
QR Code Statistics and Trends
QR code usage and awareness has grown significantly in recent years:
- Over 11 million QR codes are scanned globally each month (Scanova)
- 76% of internet users know what a QR code is (Statista)
- 91% of smartphone users have scanned a QR code at some point (Scanova)
- The most common scan action is visiting a website URL (67% of scans) (Scanova)
- Top locations QR codes are scanned are retail stores, restaurants, and event venues (Scanova)
- 67% of smartphone users feel QR codes are an easy way to get information quickly (Scanova)
QR code usage trends to be aware of:
- Increasing use of QR codes in restaurants for digital menus and ordering
- Rise of QR codes for contactless payments
- Dynamic QR codes gaining popularity for more security
- QR codes widely used now in product packaging and marketing
- QR code adoption growing for event check-in and tickets
- QR codes replacing legacy 1D barcodes in retail and inventory
QR Code Scanning Frequency by Age Demographic
| Age Group | Percentage Who Scan QR Codes Frequently |
|---|---|
| 18-29 | 49% |
| 30-44 | 44% |
| 45-60 | 36% |
| 60+ | 27% |
Source: Scanova Survey 2021
Younger smartphone users are significantly more likely to use QR scanning frequently. Adoption is gradually increasing with older demographics as well.
Conclusion
When utilized properly, QR codes provide a quick, convenient way to link the physical and digital world. But codes that are obscured, damaged, outdated, or poorly made will fail to scan correctly. Most scanning issues can be resolved by checking for common problems and regenerating the code if necessary. With billions of scans occurring globally each year, QR codes show no signs of slowing down anytime soon.