QR Code (Quick Response Code) is a two-dimensional barcode system developed by Denso Wave in Japan in 1994. Initially used for tracking parts in the automotive industry, these codes have become widespread in many fields such as information technology, education, health and retail.

QR codes offer a more functional structure compared to traditional barcodes thanks to their high data capacity, fast scanning and error correction capabilities. These features increase the user experience by facilitating access to digital content.

Technical Structure and Functioning of QR Codes

QR codes are two-dimensional matrices composed of black and white square modules. These structures can encode various types of data (text, URL, vCard, etc.). The code has four main components: locators, alignment patterns, timing patterns and data fields. Locators allow the scanner to recognize the orientation of the code; alignment patterns prevent code distortion; timing patterns determine module density; and data fields contain the actual information.

QR codes can compensate for distortions of up to 30% of the code using the Reed-Solomon error correction algorithm. This feature increases the resilience of the codes against physical damage. Furthermore, QR codes have versions (from 1 to 40) and each version determines the amount of data that can be encoded. For example, Version 1 codes contain 21x21 modules, while Version 40 codes can be up to 177x177 modules.

^{4 Main Components of QR Codes (Quick Response Code) (Created with Artificial Intelligence)}

Application Areas of QR Codes

Education and Library

QR codes are used in academic libraries to facilitate users' access to digital resources. For example, QR codes placed on bookshelves can direct users to the digital version of a book or to additional resources. In addition, QR codes can be used instead of brochures providing information about library services, allowing users to get information quickly with their mobile devices.

Health Sector

In healthcare, QR codes are used for various purposes such as quick access to patient information, medication tracking and appointment systems. For example, QR codes attached to patient wristbands allow healthcare staff to quickly access the patient's medical history. In addition, QR codes placed on medicine packaging facilitate access to instructions for use and side effect information.

^{The Use of QR Codes (Quick Response Code) in the Health Sector (Created with Artificial Intelligence)}

Retail and Marketing

In the retail sector, QR codes are used for product information, promotions and customer feedback. For example, QR codes placed in store windows allow customers to get detailed information about the product or shop online. In addition, codes embedded in advertising materials are an effective tool to increase participation in campaigns.

^{The Use of QR Codes Used in Ticketing (Created with Artificial Intelligence)}

^{The Use of QR Codes Used in Billboards (Created with Artificial Intelligence)}

Evaluation of QR Codes in terms of Security and Privacy

The proliferation of QR codes has brought with it security and privacy concerns. Malicious people can create QR codes that contain malware or for phishing purposes. Therefore, various precautions should be taken for the safe use of QR codes.

Safety Precautions

The following measures are recommended to enhance the security of QR codes:

• Verification Mechanisms: The content of QR codes can be verified with digital signatures or certificates.
• Encryption: QR codes containing sensitive data can be protected using encryption techniques.
• User Education: Users should be informed to be careful before scanning QR codes and to make sure they come from trusted sources.