Password Protecting a QR Code

Password Protection adds an access gate between your QR code scan and your destination content. When enabled, scanners must enter the correct password before they are granted access to your destination URL, document, or landing page.

Before You Start

Password Protection is configured directly from the QR code editor under Advanced Settings.
You will need access to your Lifetime QR Codes dashboard and the QR code you wish to protect.
Users who scan the protected QR code will need to know the password to reach the destination content.

Step 1: Open or Create a QR Code

Log in to your Lifetime QR Codes dashboard.
To use an existing QR code, go to Dynamic QR Codes and click Edit.
To create a new QR code, click Create QR Code.
Choose the QR code type you want to configure.

Lifetime QR Codes type selection screen showing available QR code types

Step 2: Open Advanced Settings

Open the QR code editor.
Go to Advanced Settings.
Locate the Password section.

QR code editor Configure step showing Advanced Settings and Password toggle

Step 3: Enable Password Protection

Turn Password Protection to ON.
Enter the password you want users to enter.
Save the QR code to apply the setting.

Password protection enabled with password entered in Advanced Settings

Share Passwords Responsibly

Share the password only with the people who should have access to the QR code content. Anyone with the password will be able to unlock the destination.

Step 4: What Happens When Someone Scans

When a visitor scans your password-protected QR code using their smartphone camera, they encounter a secure access prompt before any destination content or landing page is displayed:

Password Prompt: A clean security dialog appears requesting the required password.
Submitting Access: The scanner enters the password into the field and taps Proceed.
Instant Redirect: Once verified, the prompt clears immediately and the browser opens the destination content.
Access Control: If an incorrect password is entered, access is denied and the destination content remains securely locked.

Password prompt displayed on mobile after scanning a password-protected QR code

1. Password prompt appears upon scanning

Destination content unlocked and displayed after entering the correct password

2. Destination content unlocks after tapping Proceed

Tips for Using Password Protection

Use a password that is easy for the intended audience to enter but not obvious to unintended users.
Communicate the password through a separate channel (such as email or direct message) when distributing the physical QR code.
Update the password if access requirements change or if unintended users learn the password.
Always test the QR code by scanning it after enabling or changing password protection.

What Happens After Enabling Password Protection?

Someone scans the printed or digital QR code with a smartphone camera.
A clean password prompt screen appears in their browser before any destination content loads.
The user enters the required password and submits it.
If the password is correct, the scanner is immediately redirected to the destination content.
If the password is incorrect, an error message appears and access is not granted.

Common Use Cases

Internal documents: Share QR codes linking to internal wikis, SOPs, or documentation on office signage without exposing content to visitors or the public.
Private events: Provide invitees or ticket holders with access to schedules, venue details, or exclusive event content.
Staff-only resources: Place QR codes on employee signage or handbooks linking to internal tools, HR resources, or training materials.
Exclusive offers and coupons: Restrict promotional discounts or special offers to a specific group by requiring a shared access password.
Press and media kits: Share media releases with journalists and partners while keeping brand assets and unreleased materials protected.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Password Protection for a QR Code?

Password Protection adds a lock screen prompt between the QR code scan and your destination content, requiring scanners to enter the correct password before viewing your page or file.

How do I enable Password Protection?

Open the QR code in the editor, navigate to Advanced Settings, locate the Password Protection section, turn it on, enter your desired password, and save your changes.

What happens when someone scans a password-protected QR code?

Scanners see a password entry page in their mobile browser. Once they type the correct password and submit, they are immediately redirected to the destination.

Can I change the password later?

Yes. You can edit the QR code at any time, open Advanced Settings, enter a new password in the Password Protection section, and save. The new password takes effect immediately.

Can I remove Password Protection?

Yes. Open the QR code editor, go to Advanced Settings, toggle Password Protection off, and save. The destination will become publicly accessible again without a prompt.

Do I need to reprint my QR code after changing the password?

No. Because password protection is managed server-side on your dynamic QR code, changes take effect immediately without needing to reprint or redistribute the code.

What happens if someone enters the wrong password?

If an incorrect password is entered, the prompt displays an error message and access to the destination content is not granted.