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Why did my QR code stop working?

If a printed QR code suddenly leads to an error or a "this code has expired" page, it was most likely a dynamic code: it pointed at the generator's short link, and the generator turned that link off. The pattern you printed is fine; the redirect behind it was cut.

Check an existing code

  1. Scan the code with your phone camera, but don't open it yet.
  2. Read the address the camera shows before it opens anything.
  3. If the address is on a QR company's domain (a short link), the code is dynamic and depends on that company. If it is your own website, the code is static and the problem is the page itself.

Other reasons a code stops scanning

  • The page it points to was moved or deleted.
  • It is printed too small for the distance people scan from.
  • There is too little contrast between the code and its background, or the colours are inverted.
  • The print is creased, scratched or covered, or the quiet margin around the code was trimmed off.

Make a QR code that never expires

A static code can't be switched off: your link is in the pattern itself and no server is involved when someone scans it. It works as long as your link works. The trade-off is that you can't change where it points (see static vs dynamic).

Paste a link (https://...) or type any text.

Style

Enter a link or some text to see your QR code.

Static code: the content is inside the image, so it does not expire and we never see its scans.

Questions

Why did my free QR code stop working?

Most likely it was a dynamic code and the provider turned off its short link, often when a trial ended. Scan it and look at the first address it opens to check.

Can I fix a code that stopped working?

Not the printed one, unless you can get the provider to turn its link back on. Make a new code and replace it.

Do static QR codes ever expire?

No. Only the link inside one can break, for example if the page it points to is deleted.

Is there a watermark?

Not on static codes made here. Codes saved in a free account have a small text line under the code, and Pro removes it.

Can your saved codes expire?

No. They keep working while they are in your account and the service is running, including after Pro ends. We remove a code only if you delete it or your account, or it is used for abuse under our Terms.

Simply Automated QR is made by Simply Automated. Questions: support@simplyautomated.io