Is there a QR scan history?

Yes, dynamic QR codes maintain detailed scan history with timestamps, locations, and device data. Learn how to access and export your scan records.

Overview
2 min read
By Laurent Schaffner
Updated December 22, 2025

Yes, trackable QR codes automatically maintain comprehensive scan history that you can access anytime through analytics dashboards.

What's included in scan history

Dynamic QR codes record every interaction:

  1. Complete timestamp data (date, time, timezone)
  2. Geographic information (country, city, region)
  3. Device details (iOS/Android, browser type)
  4. Network information (ISP, connection type)
  5. Referrer sources when applicable

Accessing your scan history

View scan records through multiple channels:

  • Live dashboard at Linkbreakers
  • Individual QR code analytics pages
  • Exported CSV files for analysis
  • API endpoints for custom integrations

Data retention periods

Scan history storage varies by plan:

  • Free plans - 30-90 days typically
  • Paid plans - 1+ years of complete history
  • Enterprise - Custom retention periods available

Check your specific plan details for exact timeframes.

Real-time vs historical tracking

Linkbreakers provides both:

  1. Live monitoring - See scans happening now
  2. Historical analysis - Review patterns over time
  3. Trend identification - Spot peak usage periods
  4. Comparative data - Month-over-month growth

Exporting scan history

Download your data in multiple formats:

  • CSV spreadsheets for Excel analysis
  • JSON format for developer integration
  • API queries for automated reporting
  • Dashboard widgets for real-time displays

Privacy and scan records

Scan history respects user privacy:

  • Anonymous tracking by default
  • No personal identification stored
  • IP-based geolocation only (not GPS)
  • GDPR compliant data handling

Personal details only appear if users voluntarily provide them through forms.

Limitations of static QR codes

Traditional QR codes have no scan history:

  • Direct linking bypasses tracking systems
  • No data collection occurs
  • Can't upgrade existing static codes
  • No analytics available retroactively

Advanced history features

Premium tracking includes:

  • Campaign attribution through UTM parameters
  • Device fingerprinting for return visit tracking
  • Geographic clustering for location insights
  • Time-based filtering for specific periods

Frequently asked questions

How long is scan history kept? Retention periods depend on your plan. Free tiers typically store 30-90 days, while paid plans offer 1+ years of complete scan history.

Can I delete scan history? Yes, most platforms allow history deletion through privacy controls. However, this action is usually irreversible, so consider exporting data first.

Is scan history shared with third parties? Reputable QR platforms don't sell scan history. Data may be shared only for legal compliance or with explicit user consent for integrations.

About the Author

LS

Laurent Schaffner

Founder & Engineer at Linkbreakers

Passionate about building tools that help businesses track and optimize their digital marketing efforts. Laurent founded Linkbreakers to make QR code analytics accessible and actionable for companies of all sizes.