How to Scan a QR Code from a Screenshot or Photo

QR codes are made to be scanned with a camera, but what if the code is on your own phone screen or in an email? Here’s how to read it anyway.

📷Free QR Code Scanner
Read a QR code from a photo or screenshot.
Open tool →

On a computer

Take a screenshot of the code (or save the image), open the QR Code Scanner and drop it in. You'll see the link or text inside without opening it.

On iPhone

Open the screenshot in Photos and press and hold the QR code (Live Text), or use the Google app's Lens.

On Android

Open the screenshot in Google Photos and tap Lens, or use Circle to Search on supported phones.

Check before you open

Scam QR codes on parking meters, parcels and emails lead to fake payment and login pages. Paste the decoded link into the Phishing Link Checker first – it shows the real destination and red flags.

Frequently asked questions

Why won't my QR code scan?

It may be blurry, cropped, too small or low contrast. Use a sharper, larger image.

Can a QR code contain a virus?

The code itself can't, but the link it opens can lead to malicious sites.

Is my image uploaded?

No.

📷Free QR Code Scanner
Read a QR code from a photo or screenshot.
Open tool →

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