How to scan a QR code with your phone

The Verge - Apr 18th, 2025

QR codes, originally developed in the 1990s, have become an integral part of daily life, especially during the pandemic when touchless technology became essential. They are now widely used for ordering food, accessing Wi-Fi, shopping online, proving identity, and more. These codes, which can store up to 3KB of data or redirect users to websites, are easily readable by smartphone cameras, thanks to built-in native scanning capabilities since 2017. Despite their convenience, users should remain cautious of fraudulent QR codes that can lead to phishing attacks.

The widespread adoption of QR codes highlights their significance in modern technology, allowing for seamless and contactless interactions across various sectors. As QR codes continue to permeate everyday activities, they underscore the shift towards digital solutions in response to global challenges. However, the potential for misuse necessitates awareness and vigilance among users to avoid security risks associated with malicious QR codes. Moving forward, QR codes are poised to evolve further, offering enhanced functionalities and integration into emerging technologies.

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Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

6.0

Moderately Fair

Read with skepticism

The article provides a clear and informative overview of QR codes, focusing on their functionality and everyday applications. It is timely and relevant, given the widespread use of QR codes in various sectors. However, the lack of cited sources and depth in exploring potential drawbacks, such as security risks and privacy concerns, limits its accuracy and balance. Enhancing source quality and transparency would improve the article's credibility. While the article is engaging and accessible, incorporating more diverse perspectives and addressing controversial aspects could broaden its appeal and impact. Overall, it serves as a useful introduction to QR codes but could benefit from a more comprehensive and balanced approach.

Accuracy

The story provides a broad overview of QR codes, claiming they were invented in the 1990s and have become ubiquitous, especially during the pandemic. These claims are generally accurate, but the story lacks specific dates and context for the invention. It correctly states that QR codes are used for various applications, but the claim about their data capacity (3KB) and typical content (under a hundred alphanumeric characters) could be more precise, as QR codes can store different types and amounts of data depending on the version used. The mention of error correction is accurate but lacks detail on how it functions. The story correctly notes that native QR code scanning has been available since Android 8 and iOS 11, aligning with the claim that modern smartphones do not require additional apps for QR scanning.

Balance

The article focuses primarily on the utility and technical aspects of QR codes, with less emphasis on potential drawbacks or criticisms, such as privacy concerns or security risks beyond phishing. While it mentions security risks, it does not explore them in depth or provide a balanced view of the pros and cons of using QR codes. This could lead to a perception of bias towards the positive aspects of QR codes.

Clarity

The article is generally clear and well-structured, providing a straightforward explanation of how QR codes work and how to use them. The language is accessible, and the information is presented logically, making it easy to follow. However, some technical terms, like 'error correction,' could be explained more thoroughly for readers unfamiliar with QR code technology.

Source quality

The story does not cite any sources, which makes it difficult to assess the credibility and reliability of the information provided. The lack of source variety or authority diminishes the article's overall trustworthiness. Including expert opinions or references to studies on QR code usage and security would enhance the article's credibility.

Transparency

The article provides basic information about QR codes but lacks transparency regarding the sources of its claims. There is no explanation of the methodology used to gather information, and no conflicts of interest are disclosed. Greater transparency about the basis for the claims and any potential biases would improve the article's trustworthiness.