Question 1

What QR codes can the reader decode?

Accepted Answer

All standard QR formats: URL/web links, text, WiFi credentials, contact cards (vCard), payment (UPI/PIX/EMV), calendar events, email, SMS templates, geolocation, and product GTIN barcodes (also 1D barcodes like EAN-13, UPC-A).

Question 2

How does scanning work?

Accepted Answer

3 methods: 1) Webcam (laptop/phone camera, real-time), 2) Image upload (PNG/JPG/PDF screenshot), 3) Paste image from clipboard. Decoding happens in browser (offline-capable via PWA).

Question 3

Is my QR data sent to servers?

Accepted Answer

No — all decoding runs locally in your browser via the jsQR library. URLs/text never leave your device. Only after decoding, if you click "open URL", the browser navigates normally.

Question 4

Can it read damaged or low-quality QR codes?

Accepted Answer

Yes — QR has error correction (L/M/Q/H levels). Up to 30% damage recoverable (H level). The tool also tries multiple binarization thresholds and rotations for poor lighting/angle.

Question 5

Are scanned URLs safe to open?

Accepted Answer

The tool does NOT auto-open URLs. You see the decoded URL first + safety check (known malware domains flagged via Google Safe Browsing API). You manually decide to open. Common scam: QR menu in restaurants leading to phishing — always verify.

QR Code Reader

Frequently asked questions