QR Code Warning: Free QR Codes Being Used as Lead Generation
Every week we get called by Australia companies who have been conned by overseas QR Code Generators offering free QR Codes which are actually paid Dynamic QR Codes and only free for a month or a few weeks.
In the world of QR Codes, it’s easy to get swept up by promises of “free” QR Code generation. But beware—many so-called “free” QR Code services are using these tools as a lead generation tactic.
You may be creating a free code, but signing up to a paid subscription without even realising it. This blog will expose how this happens, provide real-life examples, and show you how to create truly free QR Codes without falling into these traps.
How to test your Static QR Code
A free Static QR Code is a type of QR Code that, once generated, permanently links to a fixed URL or data, such as text or contact details. They can never be edited or changed in anyway and last forever.
Static will always link to the original url entered for example https://qrcodesaustralia.com.au This is forever free.
Dynamic uses a shortened data base url for example https://trakqrc.com/?id=2243 This is a paid for service
We use the a special scanner to test the QR Codes before visiting or using as it provides a good check. You can see the url its going to.
Our free and no hidden lead generation tactics can be found on this website under static QR code or go direct to https://dynamicqrcode.au/
This mainly is applied to Static QR Codes linking to a URL and can be identified when you scan it and should show theo URL in full in the address bar.
How to detect a free Static QR Code used for lead generation:
- Sign-up required: You’re asked for personal details before generating the code.
- Limited control: You can’t edit the content after the code is created.
- Hidden fees: You might be asked to upgrade for essential features or continued use.
Always check if you’re required to provide unnecessary details or if there’s a paywall for basic functionality to avoid lead generation tactics.
The Hidden Agenda Behind “Free” QR Codes
A quick search online will present you with numerous websites offering “free” QR Codes. However, these websites are often not as generous as they seem.
In reality, the QR Codes they provide come with strings attached. Many of these free services are designed to gather your personal information and business details in exchange for the QR Code.
Once you’ve created your code, you may receive endless emails, offers, or even have your details sold to third parties.
Some services also lock critical features behind paywalls. You may get a basic static QR Code for free, but once you want to edit, track usage, or even ensure the code remains active, you’re asked to upgrade to a paid plan.
Real-Life Examples: How It Happens
Imagine you’re running a small café in Sydney. You want to create a QR Code to offer your customers an easy way to view your menu.
You find a service that offers free QR Codes, generate one, and start using it. A few weeks later, you notice your inbox flooded with marketing emails from various companies you’ve never heard of.
Worse still, your “free” QR Code stops working, and the company asks you to pay for continued use.
This isn’t just a one-off story. Many businesses in Australia have fallen into the same trap, and it’s essential to know how to avoid it.
How to Spot These Lead Generation Tactics
Here are a few signs that the “free” QR Code service you’re using might be gathering your information for lead generation purposes:
- Mandatory sign-up forms: You can’t create a QR Code without providing your email address or business details.
- Unwanted emails: Shortly after signing up, you start receiving unsolicited emails, newsletters, or promotional offers.
- Limited functionality: The QR Code works initially, but you’re soon required to upgrade to a paid plan to keep it functional.
- Tracking of your usage: Some services may claim to track your QR Code’s usage but use this data for their own marketing purposes.
The Safe Alternative: True Free QR Codes
Thankfully, not all free QR Code services are created equal. At QR Codes Australia, you can generate truly free QR Codes without any hidden agenda or lead generation tactics. Our service allows you to create static QR Codes without requiring personal information or signing up for anything you don’t need.
How to Create a Free QR Code with QR Codes Australia:
- Visit: Go to QR Codes Australia Generator.
- Choose your QR Code type: Select whether you want to create a link, text or one of the many other options
- Input your data: Enter the URL, text, or contact information you want to encode in the QR Code.
- Generate: It will generate the code and simply save and download your files.
- Download and use: Your QR Code is ready for download and can be used immediately without any extra charges or commitments.
Final Thoughts: Protect Your Business from Hidden Costs
While the promise of a “free” QR Code can be tempting, always be cautious about the hidden costs. Lead generation tactics and data collection are becoming more common in the digital world, and your business could end up paying more in the long run—whether that’s through spam, lost time, or even potential data privacy issues.
By using trusted, local services like QR Codes Australia, you can ensure that you’re not only getting a truly free QR Code but also supporting an Australian business that values transparency and quality.
