QR code reader — see the link before you open it
Read a QR code from a saved photo or screenshot and inspect the text before opening a link. Recognised Wi-Fi and contact codes get a field-by-field preview, without joining a network or saving a contact.
Runs in your browser — your input is not uploaded to ToolsNow.
Camera is off.
Your files are processed locally in your browser and are not uploaded to ToolsNow.
Site files and analytics use separate network connections. Ads are off. Privacy & Cookies
Scanning does not open a link automatically. Read the decoded address before choosing to open it. Only HTTP and HTTPS links are made clickable here.
Warnings flag unusual address details, but this tool does not check whether a website is safe. Wi-Fi and contact codes are shown for review; scanning does not join a network or save a contact.
Images and camera frames are decoded in your browser. Opening a decoded link makes a separate request to that website. Use Stop camera when you have finished scanning.
How to use
- Choose a saved image. Drop a photo or screenshot into the file area, or click to choose one. Save a clipboard screenshot as an image file first. Scan with camera is also available where the browser can start it.
- Read Decoded content. For a web link, inspect Host and Path as well as the displayed address. A short link only reveals the short URL, not the final page behind it.
- Review any warnings. Web-link warnings can flag an IP host, punycode, embedded credentials or an unusual port. No warning does not mean the destination is trustworthy.
- Keep the result or open it yourself. Use Copy content or Download .txt. Open this link appears for http and https addresses; nothing opens until you choose it. Use Scan another to reset.
Questions
Does this check if a link is safe or follow redirects?
No. It reads the address encoded in the QR image without visiting it or asking a reputation service about it. A short URL can redirect somewhere else, and even an ordinary-looking https address can lead to a harmful page. Check the host and the source of the code before opening it.
Why is an xn-- domain flagged?
That prefix is punycode, used to represent internationalised domain names. It has legitimate uses, but lookalike letters can make a name easy to misread. The flag is a prompt to inspect the domain, not a verdict that it is malicious.
Will scanning join Wi-Fi or add a contact?
No. The reader displays recognised fields only. A Wi-Fi password is shown as readable text, so take care when copying or sharing the result. Contact cards are previewed without being added to an address book.
Why is no code found in a screenshot or photo?
Try an image with one sharp, square-on QR code. Crop away a large surrounding photo while leaving the code’s light border intact. Images wider or taller than 1600 pixels are reduced before decoding, which can make a small code in the distance hard to read. Blur, damage or another barcode format can also prevent a result.
What if the camera will not start?
Check the browser’s camera permission and that another app is not using it. The camera option needs a supported browser and a secure page context. You can take a photo with your camera app, then select that saved image here if scanning does not start.
Are photos or camera frames uploaded?
No. The reader decodes their pixels in your browser. This local image processing is separate from page analytics. Use Stop camera to end an active camera session when you are finished.
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