QR codes store, and make accessible, information. QR stands for quick response, which makes sense since a scan calls up information quickly and executes commands. Each camera, whether it’s on a smartphone or tablet, can read and process QR codes with the appropriate app.

How do QR codes work?

A QR code contains a pattern which embeds information within a square graphic. This square includes black and white dots and lines that the app reads. A QR code may contain up to 177×177 elements, and up to half an A4 text page. Code has a capacity of up to 4,296 alphanumeric characters, or 7,089 decimal digits at the lowest level of error correction, expressed in numbers, and the higher the level of error correction, the smaller the capacity of the QR code.

A QR code is made up of two elements:

• Three squares in the corners of the QR code, which allow the scanner to navigate the code
• The QR code itself, which is embedded as a pattern and holds the information

How reliable and secure is a QR code?

The QR codes are intended to keep information legible even if partially destroyed or obscured. This is achieved by correcting mistakes. To put it another way, information is embedded several times. The codes can be read at the highest level of security even if up to one-third of the code has become illegible. That makes QR codes very reliable as carriers of information.

Digital fraud is a widespread problem, with QR codes not exempt. They have already been circulated for fraudulent purposes in the past. Therefore, you must make sure your app shows what the code contains before performing the function. That will help prevent you from accessing fake QR codes that link to malicious websites. Make sure the web page is kept in the HTTPS protocol. Only open those websites you trust.

How do you use a QR code?

A QR code with a smartphone or tablet and a corresponding QR code app can be used, which scans and processes the code. Follow these four steps to using a QR code:

• Point the camera at the QR code
• Scan or take a photo of the QR code
• The app processes the QR code
• The app executes the QR code and asks if you want to open the embedded URL

Advantages

• Fast information retrieval
• Interesting application possibilities

Disadvantages

• Added value not clear
• Issues with some placements
• Security risks

At the end

When used correctly QR codes are helpful tools. They can be scanned by more and more camera apps, which increase their popularity. If you can provide users with more added values the codes can quickly become a valuable and versatile tool.