Shortened Links in QR Codes and What They Hide

Many QR codes contain a short link, such as an address with only a few characters after the domain.

Why people use them

• Shorter content makes a simpler code. A simpler code is easier to scan.
• They are easy to change if the service behind them allows it.
• They can count scans, which helps marketing.
• They are tidy to read and print.

The downside

A short link does not show where it goes. The full destination is hidden until the link is opened.

What to do as a scanner

• Look at the preview. Note the domain of the short link. Well-known shortening services are easier to judge than unfamiliar ones.
• Think about the context. A short link on an official poster from a known business is less worrying than one on an unmarked sticker.
• Be extra careful if the page then asks for logins or payments.

What to do as a creator

• Use a service you trust, and keep it active.
• Prefer your own domain for a short address, if possible. It looks more trustworthy.
• Avoid chains of several redirects.
• Test regularly, since a service that shuts down breaks your printed code.

Alternatives

If your address is short enough, you may not need a shortener at all. A clean, direct link is more transparent to scanners.