How does the online QR code scanner work?

Our QR scanner uses your device's camera or an uploaded image to detect and decode QR codes in real-time. The scanner analyzes the image using pattern recognition algorithms to locate the three position markers (corner squares), reads the encoded data in a grid pattern, and applies error correction to ensure accuracy. All processing happens locally in your browser using JavaScript and WebAssembly, so your data never leaves your device. You can scan from a live camera feed or upload saved QR code images (PNG, JPEG, WebP).

Is it safe to grant camera access to the QR scanner?

Yes! When you allow camera access, the video feed is processed entirely in your browser—no video or images are uploaded to any server. The browser's built-in permission system gives you full control, and you can revoke access anytime. Our scanner only accesses the camera when actively scanning, and the feed stops immediately when you close the scanner. Your privacy is protected since all QR code decoding happens client-side. Always verify the scanner is from a trusted source before granting camera permissions.

What types of QR codes can this scanner read?

The scanner supports all standard QR code formats including plain text, URLs (websites), WiFi credentials (SSID and password), vCards (contact information), email addresses, phone numbers, SMS messages, geographic coordinates, calendar events (vCalendar), and app store links. It can also decode different QR code versions (1-40) and error correction levels (L, M, Q, H). The scanner automatically detects the data type and displays it in a readable format, with special handling for WiFi credentials and contact cards.

Can I scan a QR code from an image file instead of using my camera?

Absolutely! Click the 'Upload Image' option to select a QR code image from your device. This works great for scanning QR codes from screenshots, photos, emails, or documents. The scanner supports common image formats (PNG, JPEG, WebP, GIF) and can decode QR codes from images of any size, automatically adjusting for rotation, skew, or lighting issues. This is useful when you receive QR codes via email, need to scan codes from your photo library, or don't have a working camera available.

Why isn't my QR code scanning properly?

Common scanning issues include poor lighting (try moving to brighter area), camera not in focus (move closer or farther from QR code), damaged or low-quality QR codes (try adjusting camera angle), reflections on glossy surfaces (tilt to reduce glare), or QR code too small or too large in frame (adjust distance). For uploaded images, ensure the image is clear, high resolution, and the QR code isn't severely distorted. Some very dense QR codes (high data content) may need to fill more of the camera frame to scan successfully.

Are there security risks when scanning QR codes?

Yes—QR codes can contain malicious URLs or commands, so always preview the decoded content before taking action. Our scanner shows you the full URL or data before you visit it, giving you a chance to verify it's legitimate. Be cautious of QR codes in public places, emails from unknown senders, or codes promising prizes/offers. Scammers use QR codes for phishing attacks, malware distribution, or payment fraud. Never scan QR codes for financial transactions without verifying the source. Our tool helps by clearly displaying what the QR code contains before you act on it.

Can this scanner read barcodes in addition to QR codes?

While primarily designed for QR codes, many QR scanners also support common 1D barcodes like UPC-A, EAN-13, Code 128, and Code 39 (used on retail products and shipping labels). 2D barcodes like Data Matrix and PDF417 may also be supported. However, QR codes and standard barcodes use different encoding methods, so scanning success varies by barcode type. For specialized barcode scanning (inventory management, retail), dedicated barcode scanner apps may provide better results. Our tool focuses on QR code scanning with best-in-class accuracy.

What's the difference between scanning with camera vs uploading an image?

Camera scanning provides real-time continuous detection—just point and it scans automatically when a code is detected. This is fastest for physical QR codes on products, posters, or screens. Uploading an image is better for QR codes you've already captured (screenshots, photos, email attachments) or when your camera isn't working. Image upload allows the scanner to process the entire image at full resolution, which can improve accuracy for damaged or low-quality codes. Camera scanning is more convenient; image upload is more flexible.

Can I scan QR codes from my phone's screen using this tool?

Yes! Use the upload image option to select a screenshot of the QR code from your photo library. Alternatively, if you have two devices, you can display the QR code on one device and scan it with the other device's camera. Some browsers also support selecting images from other apps via the file picker. Note that scanning directly from your own screen with the same device's camera usually doesn't work well due to screen glare and focusing issues, so the screenshot/upload method is more reliable.

Does the scanner work offline or require an internet connection?

The scanner works completely offline once the page is loaded! All QR code decoding happens in your browser using JavaScript—no internet connection is required for scanning. This means your scanned data (URLs, WiFi passwords, contact info) never leaves your device. However, you'll need internet to initially load the scanner page, and if you scan a URL and want to visit it, you'll need internet for that. The offline capability makes it safe for scanning sensitive information like WiFi credentials or private contact details.

QR Code Scanner

Scan QR codes instantly using your camera or upload an image. Decode URLs, WiFi credentials, vCards, and more with our fast and secure online scanner.

Camera Scanner

Use your device camera to scan QR codes in real-time