How to scan a QR code from a screenshot?

You can scan QR codes from screenshots using several methods depending on your device. If the QR code was created with Linkbreakers, you can also verify the destination and track performance with your workspace tools.

Linkbreakers quick answer

If you created the QR code in Linkbreakers, this is the fastest and safest path:

1. Open your Linkbreakers dashboard and find the QR code.
2. Use the destination preview to confirm the link.
3. Scan the screenshot using the steps below on your device.
4. If you need scan analytics, open Visitors after the scan.

If you just need to scan a screenshot, you can also use the Linkbreakers QR code scanner.

iPhone screenshot scanning

Method 1: Photos app

1. Open the screenshot in your Photos app
2. Tap the QR code - iPhone automatically detects it
3. Tap the notification that appears at the top
4. Follow the link or action

Method 2: Camera app

1. Open Camera app
2. Point at the screenshot on another device or screen
3. Tap the notification when the QR code is detected

Android screenshot scanning

Google Lens (built into most Android phones):

1. Open Google Lens (or camera app with Lens integration)
2. Select the screenshot from your photo gallery
3. Point Lens at the QR code in the image
4. Tap the result to follow the link

Samsung phones:

1. Open Gallery app
2. Select your screenshot
3. Tap the Bixby Vision or Smart Scan button
4. Select the QR code when detected

Desktop computer methods

Chrome browser:

1. Open your screenshot in Chrome
2. Right-click on the QR code
3. Select "Search image with Google Lens"
4. Click the QR code result to follow the link

Online QR scanners:

• Upload your screenshot to web-based QR readers
• Drag and drop the image file to scan
• Use a reputable scanner and verify the destination before opening
• The Linkbreakers QR code scanner supports screenshot uploads

Third-party apps

Popular QR scanner apps that work with screenshots:

1. QR Code Reader - Upload images from gallery
2. Norton Snap - Security-focused with screenshot support
3. Kaspersky QR Scanner - Malware protection included
4. ZXing Barcode Scanner - Open source option

Troubleshooting screenshot scans

If scanning fails:

• Ensure high quality - Blurry screenshots won't scan
• Check lighting - Screenshots with glare or shadows may fail
• Crop the image - Focus on just the QR code area
• Increase size - Zoom in if the QR code appears small
• Try different apps - Some scanners work better than others

Security considerations

When scanning QR codes from screenshots:

1. Verify the source - Only scan codes from trusted origins
2. Check URLs before opening links
3. Be cautious with codes from unknown sources
4. Use secure scanners that preview destinations

Limitations

Screenshot scanning has restrictions:

• Quality dependent - Low resolution images may not work
• No real-time validation - Can't verify if codes are still active
• Source uncertainty - Hard to verify screenshot authenticity
• Potential manipulation - Screenshots can be edited

Frequently asked questions

Can I scan a QR code from a photo sent in a text message? Yes. Save the image to your photo gallery first, then use any of the screenshot scanning methods described above.

Why won't my phone scan the QR code from the screenshot? Check image quality, lighting, and resolution. Try cropping the image to focus only on the QR code, or use a dedicated scanner app.

Is it safe to scan QR codes from screenshots? Exercise the same caution as scanning any QR code. Verify the source and preview URLs before proceeding to unknown websites.

How do I verify a Linkbreakers QR code from a screenshot? Open the QR code in your Linkbreakers dashboard and confirm the destination preview before scanning. This is the most reliable way to confirm the link.

Can Linkbreakers track a scan from a screenshot? Yes. If the QR code was created in Linkbreakers, the scan is tracked like any other scan. View results in Visitors.

What if a Linkbreakers QR code was updated after the screenshot? If the QR code is dynamic, Linkbreakers updates the destination without changing the code. The screenshot will still send users to the current destination.