---
title: "Is there a QR scan history?"
description: "Yes, dynamic QR codes maintain detailed scan history with timestamps, locations, and device data. Learn how to access and export your scan records."
canonical: "https://linkbreakers.com/help/article/is-there-a-qr-scan-history"
last-updated: 2026-11-05
---

# 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.

## Short answer

Yes, for dynamic QR codes: each scan is recorded with its time and, depending on your data collection level, its location and device, and you can read it in your Visitors dashboard or export it as CSV. Static QR codes keep no history, because a scan never passes through a tracking server. How far back the history goes depends on your plan.

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

For one person's history, open their profile in Visitors: every scan from their phone, marked First or Returning, with the city and the time, as shown in [how to see who scanned your QR code, and from where](https://linkbreakers.com/help/article/how-do-i-track-who-scanned-my-qr-code).

View scan records through multiple channels:

- **Live dashboard** at [Linkbreakers](https://app.linkbreakers.com/workspace/dashboard/visitors)
- **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** - 2 weeks
- **Light** - 3 months
- **Pro** - 2 years
- **Enterprise** - Custom retention periods

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** by default (precise location only with a [Location request](https://linkbreakers.com/help/article/how-to-ask-for-a-visitors-precise-location) step and the visitor's permission)
- **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 depends on your plan: 2 weeks on Free, 3 months on Light, 2 years on Pro, and custom on Enterprise.

**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.

## Limits and caveats

- Feature availability and limits can vary by plan and workspace setup.
- Results depend on correct implementation, attribution setup, and data quality controls.
- Regulatory and privacy obligations vary by jurisdiction and use case.