Why did my QR code stop working?

The company running the code stopped forwarding scans

Many QR generators make dynamic codes. A dynamic code doesn't hold your link. It holds a short link to the company's server, which forwards each scan to your page.

If that company stops forwarding, the code stops too. This can happen when a trial or plan ends, depending on the company's policy. The printed code looks exactly the same, which is why it's such a surprise.

The page it opens has moved

A static code holds your link directly, so no company can switch it off. But if the page moves or the website closes, scans lead nowhere. Check the link in a browser. If the page is gone, restoring it fixes every printed code.

The camera can't read it

If the phone doesn't react at all, the problem is the print rather than the link. Common causes are low contrast, a code printed too small, glare, or damage. Our guide to a QR code not scanning covers these.

What to do next

Start by checking the code. Then:

• If a company runs the code, it's the only one that can turn it back on. Contact them, or replace the code.
• If you can't reprint, put a new code on a sticker the same size as the old one.
• Use a code that doesn't depend on a trial, so this doesn't happen again.

Check your code

Scan it, upload a photo, or paste the link. We'll show where it goes and who controls it.

Questions