This is for you if… you have seen a square QR code on a letter, menu, parking sign, appointment reminder or parcel note and you are not quite sure what to do with it.
I was helping someone in Red Lodge recently who needed to check in for an appointment, but the instruction simply said “scan the QR code”. Once we slowed it down and looked at each step, it became much less mysterious.
What a QR code does
A QR code is a shortcut. Your phone camera reads the square pattern and offers to open a website, form, map, ticket, menu, app download or payment page. The QR code itself is not the important bit. The important bit is where it sends you.
Before you start
- Make sure you have your phone with you.
- Check the phone has enough battery.
- Make sure the camera lens is clean.
- Stand where there is enough light to see the code clearly.
- If the QR code is on a letter, place the letter flat on a table.
Step-by-step: how to scan a QR code on your phone
- Unlock your phone.
- Find the Camera app. It is usually the same app you use to take photos.
- Open the Camera app.
- Point the camera at the QR code. You do not need to take a photo.
- Hold the phone still for a few seconds.
- Look for a small link, banner or button that appears on the screen.
- Do not tap it straight away. Read the first part of the website address if you can.
- If the address looks sensible, tap the link or banner.
- When the page opens, check it looks like the company, surgery, council, car park or service you expected.
- Only enter personal details if you are confident the page is genuine.
If nothing happens
- Move the phone a little closer to the QR code.
- If that does not work, move slightly further away.
- Check the whole QR code is visible on the screen.
- Try better lighting.
- Wipe the camera lens gently.
- Close the Camera app and open it again.
- If your phone has a QR scanner in Control Centre or Quick Settings, try that instead.
When to be careful
Be cautious if the QR code asks for bank details, passwords, one-time codes, urgent payment or delivery fees. Also be careful with QR code stickers placed over official signs. If you are unsure, type the official website address yourself or contact the company using details you already trust.
Need help?
If you are in Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire or Suffolk, my membership is for ongoing help and peace of mind. If you only need help with one specific issue, you can book a visit.