QR Scanners and Camera Permissions: What to Allow
Why a scanner app needs camera access, which other permissions it does not need, and how to review them.
A QR scanner uses your camera, so it must ask for permission to use it. That is normal. Other requests deserve a closer look.
Camera
A scanner cannot work without the camera. When the app asks, the request is expected.
- While using the app is enough. There is no reason for a scanner to use the camera in the background.
What a simple scanner does not need
A basic scanner does not usually need:
- your contacts, unless you choose to save a scanned contact
- your microphone
- your location
- your messages
- full storage access, in most cases
If an app asks for many of these, ask why.
Reviewing permissions
On most phones you can:
- Open Settings.
- Go to Apps and pick the scanner.
- Open Permissions.
- See what is allowed, and change it.
Menu names vary by phone.
Choosing a scanner
Look for one that:
- asks only for what it needs
- needs no account
- does not fill the screen with pop-ups
- is small and fast
The built-in camera
Many phone cameras can scan QR codes without an extra app. A dedicated scanner can add extras, such as a scan history, a preview before action and a generator.
Tips
- Camera only is a good sign.
- Review permissions now and then.
- Remove apps you no longer use.
QR Code Scanner needs no account and opens straight to the camera.
Scan and create QR codes and barcodes with QR Code Scanner →
QR Code Scanner
Fast QR & barcode scanner with a built-in QR code generator
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