How to scan a QR code from an image
- Choose Image / screenshot or Camera.
- Drop an image, pick a file, or paste a screenshot with Ctrl+V or ⌘+V.
- Or click Start camera, allow access and point it at the code; use Switch camera to flip between front and back.
- Copy the decoded text, or check the domain and click Open link for web addresses.
What you can do with QR Code Scanner
- Scan from image or screenshot
- Decode QR codes in photos, saved images or screenshots, which helps when the code is on the same screen you're using.
- Paste from clipboard
- Take a screenshot and paste it straight into the page with Ctrl+V or ⌘+V, without saving a file first.
- Live camera scanning
- Scan with your webcam or phone camera, with a button to switch between front and rear cameras.
- Wi-Fi details
- Wi-Fi QR codes are broken out into network name, password and security type so you can read or copy them.
- Safe link handling
- Links are never opened automatically; the tool shows the destination domain first so you can spot suspicious addresses.
- Recent scans
- Keeps a short list of your latest scans during the session, each with its own copy button.
Scanning QR codes in the browser and avoiding QR scams
Most phones can scan QR codes with the camera app, but that doesn't help when the code is in a screenshot, an email attachment or on your laptop screen. This scanner decodes QR codes from images directly in the browser. It uses the built-in BarcodeDetector API where available, such as in Chrome on Android and macOS, and falls back to the open-source jsQR library elsewhere. It retries at several resolutions, which helps with very large photos and slightly blurry codes.
Be careful with QR codes from unknown sources. Quishing, or phishing by QR code, hides malicious links behind codes on parking meters, flyers and emails, because people can't read the destination before scanning. Always check the domain shown under the result before opening a link, and be wary of misspelled brand names or URL shorteners. For the best scan, crop the image close to the code, make sure it's in focus and well lit, and keep a white border around it.
Frequently asked questions
Are my images or camera feed uploaded?
No. Images and camera frames are decoded in your browser and never leave your device. The camera is only used while it's turned on, and the stream stops as soon as you click Stop camera or switch back to image mode.
Can I scan a QR code from a screenshot?
Yes. Take a screenshot, then paste it into the page with Ctrl+V on Windows or ⌘+V on Mac, or drop the image file into the box. This is the easiest way to read a QR code shown on your own screen.
Why can't it find a QR code in my image?
The code may be too small, blurry, cut off or low in contrast. Crop the image tightly around the code, use a sharper photo, and make sure the whole code including its corner squares is visible. Only QR codes are supported, not regular barcodes.
Why won't the camera start?
Camera access requires your permission and a secure HTTPS page. If you blocked it earlier, allow the camera in your browser's site settings and reload. On phones, also check that the browser has camera permission in system settings and that no other app is using the camera.
Does the QR code scanner work on iPhone and Android?
Yes. On mobile you can use camera mode with the rear camera, or pick a screenshot from your photo library in image mode. It works in Safari, Chrome and other modern mobile browsers without installing an app.