QR codes and barcodes are machine-readable data. Depending on the context, they can contain public URLs, private invite links, ticket identifiers, payment information, account setup data, Wi-Fi credentials, or one-time tokens. If you do not know what a code contains, do not assume it is harmless.
Why a small code can reveal a lot
- Event tickets may use a code as the credential itself.
- Invite codes can grant access to groups or services.
- Payment codes can expose account or transaction information.
- Shipping labels may contain tracking or address data.
- Device setup codes can contain network credentials or pairing information.
Cover the entire code, including the quiet zone
Do not draw a tiny mark through the middle and assume scanners will fail. Error correction allows some QR codes to remain readable after partial damage. Cover the complete code and a small border around it. For sensitive codes, solid blackout is the clearest choice.
- Open the screenshotChoose the image in Privacy Blur.
- Select BlackoutUse a solid redaction for a ticket, authentication, payment, or invite code.
- Draw beyond the edgesCover the whole code and its surrounding white margin.
- Check for duplicatesTickets and labels sometimes repeat the same identifier as text elsewhere on the page.
- Export and rescan visuallyOpen the final PNG and confirm no part of the code or associated number remains visible.