How to Safely Extract Plain Text and Contact Info from QR Codes

QR & Barcode 2 min read

Most people assume scanning a QR code will always open a website in their browser. However, QR codes can contain various data formats. If you scan these with your phone’s default camera, it may trigger actions automatically (like adding a contact or joining a network) which can sometimes be annoying or insecure.

Here is how to preview and copy the raw contents of any QR code safely.

What Types of Non-URL Data Can QR Codes Store?

  1. Plain Text: Simple alphanumeric strings, serial numbers, or notes.
  2. Wi-Fi Credentials: Format WIFI:S:NetworkName;T:WPA;P:Password;; which tells your phone to connect automatically.
  3. vCard (Contact Cards): Details like name, phone number, email, and company that import into your address book.
  4. Geo-location: Latitude and longitude coordinates to launch map services.

Scanning to Copy Raw Text Securely

If you scan a QR code using ScanApp.org:

  • No Auto-execution: Instead of launching a link or opening a prompt automatically, ScanApp decodes and displays the raw text inside a secure preview container.
  • Copy Button: Easily copy the plain text, Wi-Fi password, or vCard details to your clipboard with a single click.
  • Format Parsers: Built-in parsers help identify the code’s data type, letting you choose how you want to interact with it.

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