QR code
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QR Quode to insert on your homepage? —
(this calendar also on your website?) “and on several others too”
What is a QR Code?
QR codes store information and make it accessible. QR stands for “Quick Response” and the name is deserved because a scan quickly pulls up information and executes commands. Every camera, whether in a smartphone or tablet, can read and process QR codes with a corresponding app.
QR codes can also be used in conjunction with other apps, for example for augmented reality .
How reliable is a QR code?
QR codes are designed to keep the information readable even if they are partially destroyed or obscured. This is achieved through error compensation : information is embedded multiple times. With the highest security level, the codes can be read even if up to a third of them have become unreadable. This makes QR codes very reliable as information carriers.
How secure is a QR code?
QR codes have been circulated for fraudulent purposes in the past. Therefore, make sure that your app shows what the code contains before executing the function. This will help prevent fraud caused by QR codes that link to websites with malware . Make sure that the website is stored in the HTTPS protocol (i.e. begins with “ https://” ). Only go to sites you trust.
How do you use a QR code?
You can use a QR code using a smartphone or tablet and an app that scans the code and then processes it. This is done in 4 steps:
- Point the camera at the QR code.
- Scan the QR code or take a photo of the code.
- The app processes the QR code.
- The app runs the QR code and asks you, for example: B. whether you want to jump to the
embedded URL.
How can I generate a QR code?
QR codes can be generated either via apps or via websites (Forum) on the Internet. To do this, select a function such as: B. URL linking, text or WiFi and then enter the information. You can usually save the generated QR code as an image file in .jpeg format or as a vector file in .svg format. You can then do whatever you want with it: for example, print it on t-shirts, share it via messenger or embed it in a website.
When creating it, pay attention to whether you are generating a static or a dynamic QR code . With a static QR code, changing the target URL will cause the code to stop working. With a dynamic QR code, you can flexibly adjust the target URL without the code losing its function. You have to pay for dynamic QR codes from many providers.
What are the best apps for QR codes?
The best QR code apps are ad-free, include security features, and are easy to use. There are a variety of them in the Google Play Store or the App Store. We have put together a small selection for Android and iOS for you:
The best QR code apps for Android
- QR Code Reader and Scanner (Kaspersky Lab): Kaspersky is a well-known security software provider. The manufacturer meets the same standard with the QR code app because it shows you a preview before the function is executed. This allows you to scan any QR code quickly, safely and without advertising.
- Barcode Scanner (ZXing Team): With the barcode scanner you can not only capture QR codes, but also read barcodes from products. You can also create QR codes. As a scanner, the app recognizes the codes safely, quickly and reliably. This app contains no ads and shows you a preview of the code.
The best QR code apps for iOS
- Pre-installed camera app (Apple): Since iOS 11, the camera app on the iPhone or iPad can recognize and read QR codes. To do this, select the rear camera and scan the code as usual. You will receive a preview. This app does not contain any advertising.
- Scanbot (doo GmbH): Scanbot is a comprehensive scanner app that scans documents and reads QR codes. The app recognizes the codes well and you get a preview. This app is ad-free but offers a Pro version as a subscription service. QR codes can be scanned in the basic version.
Advantages and disadvantages of QR codes
Like any technology, QR codes have advantages and disadvantages. It depends on how you use it and whether it makes sense for the user or not. Be sure to leverage the technology's strengths and work around its weaknesses.
The advantages: speed and possible uses
QR codes simplify many processes. This is how you reach e.g. For example, a product website when you scan the QR code in the manual that comes with a product. You can also use the code to save guests the hassle of entering the WiFi password. Instead, you pull out your smartphone, scan the code and log in straight away. If such added value is achieved, QR codes are worthwhile because they are often faster than retrieving content by hand . However, without real added value for the user, you should refrain from using QR codes.
The possible uses are diverse. With an idea behind it, you can prepare marketing material in an interesting way and make digital content quickly accessible. It is important that the benefits for the users are clear. This often means: exclusive content, faster access and the ability to receive and share content quickly. If this is the case, there are hardly any limits to your imagination.
The disadvantages: Often unclear benefits and safety risks
However, this diversity encourages people to use QR codes even when they make little sense. In such cases it is seen as a gimmick and users will not interact with the codes.
In addition, a QR code must be placed in a static, stationary location so that the graphic can be read. Placing it on moving objects, such as a vehicle, makes scanning impossible and is therefore not useful.
Additionally, QR codes also pose the potential for security risks . In public places, QR codes can be pasted over or otherwise manipulated: Anyone who scans these codes runs the risk of being directed to a problematic URL. From the outside you cannot tell at first glance whether manipulation has taken place or not. Only up close can you see whether the code has been pasted over.
Not all scanning apps on the market tell users which website to visit. Please pay attention to where you are being directed before confirming in the app! Also be careful with link shorteners like bit.ly : This can obscure the target URL . Therefore, always consider whether the code is secure or not.
Advantages of QR codes Disadvantages of QR codes ✔ Fast information retrieval ✘ Added value sometimes unclear ✔ Interesting possible uses ✘ Problems at some locations ✘ Security risks
QR codes have become an integral part of everyday life in some Asian countries. From paying bills to receiving marketing goodies, everything is possible there. In this country, after a lot of initial hype, they eke out a niche existence . If used correctly, the codes can drastically speed up standardized processes such as logging into networks. The small squares can also be useful for marketing campaigns.
This raises the security question for users : Where does this code take me? Can I trust the provider? As a provider, make sure that you enter the target URL with the full address and communicate early on what the QR code will be used for. As a user, it is important to only use apps that show a preview and do not automatically execute the code.
Conclusion
All in all, QR codes are useful aids if you use them cleverly. More and more pre-installed camera apps can read them, which increases their popularity. If they then have a strong benefit for the user, the codes are a valuable and versatile tool.
https://www.ionos.at/digitalguide/online-marketing/verkaufen-im-internet/was-ist-ein-qr-code/
