QR code vs Verifiable QR code
Last updated
Last updated
Copyright (c) 2023 EkStep Foundation under MIT License
A QR code, short for Quick Response code, is a two-dimensional barcode that can be scanned by a QR code reader or smartphone camera to retrieve information.
QR codes can contain various types of data, such as website URLs, text, email addresses, phone numbers, and more.
QR codes are widely used in marketing, advertising, and other industries as a way to quickly provide information to customers or users. They are also used for contactless payment systems, where customers can scan a QR code to make a payment without physically swiping or inserting a credit or debit card.
QR codes are easy to create and can be printed on a paper, plastic, and metal. They can also be displayed on electronic screens, such as smartphones, tablets, and computer monitors.
| Normal QR Code | Verifiable QR code |
|---|---|
A normal QR Code is a two-dimensional barcode that contains information that can be read using a QR code scanner or a smartphone camera. This information is usually a website URL.
A signed QR code encodes the verifiable data set or information within the QR itself, rather than on any website.
QR codes are susceptible to tampering and alteration, making the verification process untrustworthy and vulnerable to hacking.
Verifiable QR codes use digital signatures to ensure the authenticity and integrity of the data/information contained within them. When a verifiable QR code is scanned, the digital signature is verified to ensure that the data/information has not been altered or tampered with. This makes them more secure and trustworthy than normal QR code.
QR codes are a quick and convenient way to share information such as website details, contact details etc.
Verifiable QR codes are used when the security and integrity of the data are of utmost importance. They are typically used for sensitive data, such as personal identification details, financial information, and medical records.
Normal QR codes can be read by most QR code scanners or smartphone cameras, ensuring broad compatibility across different devices and platforms
Verifiable QR codes can still be read by most QR code scanners or smartphone cameras, maintaining compatibility across different devices and platforms. However, the verification process may require specific software or systems capable of validating the digital signatures.
Normal QR codes may contain digital credentials, which are digital representations of qualifications, achievements, or evidence of learning or experience. These credentials can be embedded within the QR code to provide information about the individual's skills, knowledge, or accomplishments. However, it's important to note that digital credentials in normal QR codes lack the built-in mechanisms for verification and cryptographic proof found in verifiable QR codes. As a result, the authenticity and integrity of the digital credentials within normal QR codes may be more difficult to ascertain compared to verifiable QR codes.
Verifiable QR codes contain verifiable credentials, which are digital representations of qualifications, achievements, or evidence of learning or experience. These credentials are securely embedded within the QR code and include cryptographic proof of their authenticity. Verifiable credentials are issued by trusted entities and can be easily shared and verified across different platforms and systems. The presence of verifiable credentials in verifiable QR codes enhances their trustworthiness and ensures that the information contained within them can be reliably