QR codes: worth a scan or just a fad?
Is it just me or do QR codes seem to have taken over Hong Kong? From websites to print ads, bus backs to the window displays at swanky department stores, these pixilated boxes have almost become impossible to miss. I know the technology isn’t exactly new but the trend only seems to have just caught on in our neck of the woods as more businesses become social media savvy.
For those unfamiliar with the craze: a QR code is like a barcode. Smartphone users can download apps to scan these codes to access a dedicated website. QR codes can also be designed to act like business cards, installing info into contact lists and eliminating the need for people to manually enter it themselves. In a nutshell, the scanning process is quick, painless and has a sort of novelty factor to boot.
But what compels someone to scan a QR code?
Personally, I’m only motivated to scan when I know there’s a freebie or discount waiting for me at the other end. If not, the whole process of stopping to fish around my handbag for my phone, fire up the app and do the scanning just feels like too much of an ask when I’m on the go. At the end of last year, digitalbuzzblog.com reported that most QR codes were scanned by iPhone users. The website also revealed QR codes that appeared in newspaper, TV and catalogue ads were more likely to be scanned than those that appeared in forms of outdoor advertising.
Considering people can now use QR codes to make payments, join loyalty schemes and access paperless documents (like concert tickets), it’s worth asking: are they all safe to scan?
Travis Lelle, a computer technician at Refresh Computers and Electronics, says corrupt QR codes are in active circulation and have the potential to open scanners up to malware, viruses, and (worst case scenario) even give hackers access to personal information.
To be on the safe side, it’s recommended people only scan QR codes issued by credible sources and trusted brands. If a code is scanned and odd things start to appear on the phone, or if it starts asking for personal information, knock the problem on the head quickly by closing down the link.
So, are QR codes here to stay? To put it simply: yes. Although I’m personally not much of a fan, I don’t think they’re going anywhere anytime soon (afterall, they make a nice aesthetic addition to visual collateral). As long as businesses are creative and do enough to entice people to whip out their smartphones, the art of QR code scanning is well on its way to becoming common practice for HK consumers.
Happy scanning!
- Emma
