What is a QR code?

At a restaurant, on a ticket, for parking, to pay…

You see these little squares everywhere.

But what’s inside them?

What is it?

A QR code is a way to store information so a phone can read it quickly.

Often it holds a web address.

You point your camera, and your phone offers to open that address.

Why not just write the address?

It’s more convenient than typing a long URL on a keyboard.

Point, tap, done.

Is it dangerous?

The square itself isn’t dangerous.

It’s the destination that matters.

A scammer can stick their own QR code over a real one (for example at a parking meter).

You might land on a fake payment site.

Check the address or site name before you open it.

Be careful if the page asks for a password or credit card.

To remember

A QR code is simply a fast way to send information to your phone.

No need to fear QR codes.

See where they lead before you continue.