Introduction
QR codes are simple, pixelated-looking images that can be linked to, and put on, almost anything. And because all someone needs to do is scan a QR code with their smart device to open the link, they are great for sharing links with other people on business cards, marketing materials, the back of books, and anywhere else you can think of. And while there are a lot of services out there that will try and charge you to create a QR code, it’s actually really easy to create a QR code for free in Canva.
Some of the images associated with the steps are included inline below. All images associated with these steps can be seen in the embedded YouTube video. Also, please note that you’re not able to leave a comment directly on this article. If you have a question or feedback, please leave it on the YouTube video.
Steps to Create a QR Code in Canva for Free
- Open a web browser, navigate to Canva.com, and then sign in to your Canva account. You’ll land on your Canva account home screen.
- Click “Create a Design” along the top of this screen. A drop-down menu opens.
- Click “Custom Size” in this menu. A Custom Size window opens.
- I’ll enter 1-inch by 1-inch for my QR code dimensions, but you can set the dimensions to whatever you need them to be. Click “Create New Design” after entering the dimensions for the QR code you create. You’ll land on a new design screen.
- Click “Apps” in the menu on the left side of the screen.
- Type “QR Code” in the search bar along the top of the Apps menu.
- Click “QR Code” in the list of results. The next window gives you an overview of the Canva QR Code app.
- Click “Use QR Code.” That window is replaced with a QR Code window.
- Type the URL you want your QR code to link to in the URL field, and then click “Generate Code.” Your QR code will be populated into your design.
- Grab the corners of the QR code and resize it to fit your design as needed.
- After you’re done re-sizing your QR code as needed, click “Share” to open a menu and then click “Download” in that menu.
- Choose the file type you want to download your QR code as, adjust other output settings as needed, and then click “Download” to save your QR code to your computer.
Reasons to Use a QR Code
1. Simplicity of Use
QR codes simplify access to information. By scanning a QR code with a smartphone camera, users avoid typing lengthy URLs or data. This straightforward process eliminates typos and saves time. It’s a perfect tool for those who prioritize convenience and speed in accessing digital content. QR codes also help to enhance user experience, offering instant results with just a single scan.
2. Space Saving
In a world where less is more, QR codes thrive. They pack substantial data within a tiny, square space. For businesses, this is a game changer. Be it a business card, billboard, or product packaging, space comes at a premium. QR codes help to make every inch count. You can provide detailed information or multimedia content access without cluttering your design, keeping it clean and attractive.
3. Versatility
The versatility of QR codes is impressive. They can store various types of data, from plain text to URLs, contact information, and geographical coordinates. Want to share your website? Use a QR code. Launching an app? Use a QR code. Want to share your location? Again, use a QR code. This flexibility allows QR codes to serve countless purposes, fitting multiple needs and industries.
4. Trackable
QR codes offer valuable insights for businesses. When someone scans a QR code, businesses can gather data such as scan location, time, and device used. This helps companies understand customer behaviors and preferences. With this information, they can tailor marketing strategies, ensuring they’re reaching their target audience effectively. QR codes provide actionable insights, optimizing marketing campaigns.
5. Engaging
QR codes provide an interactive element to marketing. By scanning a QR code, users can unlock discounts, access exclusive content, or explore interactive experiences. This engagement can drive customer loyalty, increase brand awareness, and promote customer interaction. For businesses, QR codes can be an innovative tool to capture the attention of their audience and keep them engaged.
6. Offline to Online Bridge
QR codes connect the physical and digital worlds. A user scans a QR code on a physical object and is instantly directed to an online platform. Be it a restaurant menu, product details, or a tourism site, QR codes bring digital life to physical entities. In a world where online presence is paramount, QR codes act as a bridge, linking offline to online seamlessly.
7. COVID-19 Friendly
The pandemic has increased the need for touchless interactions. QR codes fulfill this need perfectly. For example, restaurants replaced physical menus with QR codes, reducing the risk of virus transmission. They’ve been used for contactless tickets at events, too. By offering a safe, contact-free way to share information, QR codes have become even more vital in our current climate.
8. Easy to Create
QR codes are easy to generate. Numerous online platforms offer QR code generation services. You simply input the required data, and the code gets created. While this statement does not explain the process, it emphasizes the ease with which anyone, even without tech experience, can create a QR code. This ease of creation adds to the QR code’s broad appeal.
9. Customizable
Branding is critical in marketing, and QR codes can support that. They’re customizable. You can incorporate brand colors and logos into their design. This customization makes them not only functional but also visually appealing and consistent with the brand identity. Businesses can take advantage of this to make their QR codes a recognizable part of their marketing assets.
10. Accessibility
QR codes play a significant role in improving accessibility. For instance, in a museum, QR codes can provide additional information or translations, making exhibits more accessible to foreign visitors. In the same vein, audio descriptions can be linked via QR codes to assist visually impaired visitors. By providing alternative ways to access information, QR codes contribute to a more inclusive environment.
11. Education and Learning
In the field of education, QR codes enhance learning experiences. Teachers can link to additional resources or interactive content to engage students. Students then access these materials by scanning the QR code. Not only does this make learning more engaging, but it also allows for a wealth of information to be shared without overwhelming students with physical handouts or long URLs.
Are QR Codes Safe?
1. Phishing Through QR Codes
QR codes can be a powerful tool for cybercriminals looking to phish unsuspecting victims. A simple scan may redirect users to a website disguised as a trusted entity. The user, believing the site to be legitimate, might enter sensitive data. Cybercriminals then harvest this data. The information could include passwords, credit card details, or other personal information. This use of QR codes allows for a new, highly effective method of phishing.
2. QR Codes and Malware
Malicious QR codes can introduce malware to a user’s device. Once scanned, the QR code directs the user to download a file. This file can contain harmful software such as ransomware, spyware, or other types of malware. Cybercriminals can use this malware to steal data, cause device damage, or even seize control of the victim’s device. This makes QR codes a potential vehicle for delivering harmful content.
3. Unwanted Subscriptions or Purchases Through QR Codes
Some QR codes may trick users into subscribing to premium services or making unwanted purchases. A scan could lead the user to a site where hidden terms or misleading instructions are presented. This might result in the user accidentally agreeing to a purchase or a subscription. These tactics pose financial risks and infringe on users’ rights.
4. The Problem of QR Code Content Visibility
Unlike traditional URLs, QR codes lack transparency, creating a unique security risk. Users can’t judge the legitimacy of the content before scanning. This makes it easier for malicious actors to trick users. Users may be led to harmful websites or tricked into downloading dangerous files. The content invisibility of QR codes presents a significant safety concern.
5. Privacy Risks and QR Codes
Cybercriminals can design QR codes to extract data from users’ devices. Scanning the code may reveal location data or device information. This data could be used for malicious purposes, such as identity theft or personalized scams. QR codes therefore pose a potential privacy risk, opening the door to information exploitation.
6. Credential Theft Through QR Codes
QR codes can also enable credential theft. When a user scans a specific type of malicious QR code, it initiates a session on the attacker’s device. This allows the attacker to impersonate the user in accessing a service or platform. Credential theft using QR codes poses serious risks, as it can lead to extensive data breaches and unauthorized activity.
