By Rachel Whales, Head of Global Accounts, 15 May 2025
I recently shared a BBC article about the rise in QR code scams, and it got me thinking about the conversations I’ve been having with some of our university partners around the use of QR codes for qualification verification – specifically, their increasing presence on academic documents and whether they can truly be trusted.
At first glance, QR codes seem like a smart solution. They’re modern, easy to scan, and promise speed and convenience. But when you take a closer look – especially from a verification and admissions standpoint – some serious red flags begin to pop up. For admissions teams under time pressure, QR codes may seem like a quick win – but can you really trust them?
At Qualification Check, we’ve seen numerous real-life examples of just how easily these codes can be misused. Here are a few reasons we’re encouraging admissions teams to tread carefully when it comes to relying on QR codes in the verification process.
1. QR codes are alarmingly easy to fake
Anyone can generate a QR code in seconds using free online tools. Take it a step further, and it doesn’t take much to create a QR code that links to a forged document or a spoofed website – we’ve seen some surprisingly convincing examples. Fraudsters simply place a QR code on a certificate, and without checking directly with the source, it’s almost impossible to know whether it leads to something genuine.
2. You don’t know where they’re taking you
One of the most concerning things about QR codes is that you only see the destination after you scan them. We’ve seen cases where QR codes link to illegitimate websites that appear polished and mimic official sites, but are anything but legitimate. These sites may not only be designed to mislead users, but may also collect personal information or contain malware-infected downloads.
3. There’s no standard, best practice approach
Some QR codes link to a PDF, others to a university portal, and some to third-party sites you’ve never heard of. We’ve seen it all. This lack of uniformity makes it difficult to know if even the legitimate uses or QR codes can be trusted – and opens the door to misuse.
4. Data protection concerns
Many verification processes are built around consent-based access and strict data protection standards. However, QR code systems can sometimes bypass these safeguards entirely – providing open access to applicant information. This raises significant concerns, particularly for international applications subject to data protection regulations such as GDPR.
5. False sense of security
You scan a code, a result pops up, and it feels like the job is done. But unless the issuing institution is actively confirming that document behind the scenes, there’s no actual verification taking place – just the illusion of it. This false sense of assurance can lead to inaccurate verification, particularly when documents appear authentic at first glance.
What’s the alternative?
The most reliable approach to checking applicant credentials is primary source verification – confirming qualifications directly with the awarding institution or licensing body. This method goes beyond surface-level checks and ensures that the document is genuinely issued and accurate.
This is how we do things at QC, all within the safety of a secure portal. As a best practice, it helps protect against fraud and supports a robust, auditable admissions process that stands up to scrutiny.
Quick tips on QR codes for Admissions teams
- Be cautious of any document relying on a QR code for verification.
- Always double check where a code is pointing to before trusting the result.
- Where possible, always go back to the source.
- Make sure your verification process includes applicant consent and data protections.
Final thoughts
QR codes certainly have their place in today’s digital world, especially when shared by a person or organisation you have reason to trust – but when it comes to verifying qualifications, they should be treated with caution. Shortcuts can lead to serious consequences, and in admissions, the stakes are simply too high.
If you’re interested in exploring more secure and reliable approaches to qualification verification – or would just like to hear about some of the challenges we’ve encountered behind the scenes – we’re always happy to share our insights. Get in touch.
