Payment QR code:
A seamless way to accept crypto

A payment QR code is a tool that allows businesses to accept cryptocurrency without manual wallet address input. It links the customer’s wallet to a fixed wallet address. This method reduces errors and speeds up the process. It can be used online, offline, or across devices. The code is generated by the merchant and scanned by the buyer.

Table of contents:

What is a payment QR code?

A QR code (Quick Response code) is a square grid of black-and-white pixels. It functions as a two-dimensional barcode. Each pixel carries a binary value: black for 1, white for 0. Scanners read this pattern using a camera to extract the encoded information.

Each QR code contains alignment markers in three corners. These guide the scanner to detect the position and orientation of the code.

Disclaimer: Brand references are provided solely for illustrative purposes and do not imply endorsement or partnership.

Is the QR code for crypto different from the standard one?

Standard QR codes serve general purposes. They can open websites, launch apps, share contact information or display text. They are common in advertising, packaging, and customer service.

Crypto payment QR codes are built for sending digital assets. They store wallet addresses and transaction details in a structured format. When scanned with a supported crypto wallet, they allow the user to send funds without typing in the address.

QR codes scan quickly. They require no power source. Nearly all smartphones support them. These features make them a reliable tool for accepting cryptocurrency payments online and offline.

There are two main types of QR codes:

• Static QR codes contain fixed information. Once created, the data cannot be changed. In payments, static codes often include a wallet address or a set amount. Scanning the code takes the user to a checkout page or payment link.
• Dynamic QR codes store a link to a hosted page where payment data is stored. This setup allows changes to the amount or other details without modifying the QR code image. Merchants can generate unique codes for different products or services, with built-in support for tracking and updates.

Why use QR codes for crypto payments?

QR codes began to be used for sending and receiving cryptocurrency in 2011.

Since then, several advantages have become clear:

• Speed. QR codes speed up transactions. A customer does not need to copy and check long wallet addresses. Scanning takes just seconds. In busy environments like stores or restaurants, it can save time.
• Fewer errors. Typing a wallet address by hand is risky. One wrong character sends funds to the wrong address. QR codes solve this. They reduce mistakes.
• Compatibility. QR codes work with most crypto wallets. Mobile apps and online wallets can scan them directly. It ensures compatibility across platforms, coins, and tokens.
• Mobile-friendly. Since people often carry their wallets on smartphones, QR codes are a natural match. Customers can scan and pay on the go. There’s no need for keyboards or desktop access.
• Secure by design. Crypto transactions use blockchain encryption. The QR code contains only the destination address and amount. The blockchain handles the security. But users must stay alert. A QR code should always come from a trusted source.

Are there any risks in QR codes?

Like any tool, QR codes come with risks.

These are some of the possible concerns:

• Fake codes. Scammers can replace or overlay legitimate QR codes with fraudulent ones. Always confirm that the code belongs to the correct company.
• Tampering. Printed codes can be edited or covered. Digital verification helps prevent this.
• Irreversible payments. Once a transaction is confirmed on the blockchain, it cannot be undone. Always double-check the destination before sending funds.

To prevent these issues, it’s recommended to use QR codes with additional verification. On web pages, offer a clickable version. Match the displayed address to the QR code data. In offline environments, consider using dynamic QR codes linked to secure backends.

How crypto QR codes work

Here’s how a crypto payment using a QR code usually works:

1. Wallet address creation. The merchant sets up a wallet or generates a wallet address for a specific transaction.
2. QR code generation. The wallet address (or a URI with the amount and currency) is turned into a QR code. It can be done using a public QR generation tool or an integrated API.
3. Display. The code is shown on a screen of a website or printed on a surface and placed in a shop or cafe. It might appear on a checkout page, invoice, or sticker.
4. Scan. The customer uses a smartphone to scan the QR code with their crypto wallet app.
5. Transaction confirmation. The app loads the address, currency, and amount. The user confirms and sends the payment. The blockchain processes the transfer.
6. Acknowledgment. The merchant checks the incoming transaction and, once confirmed, provides the product or service.

Benefits of using QR codes for merchants

Merchants can gain several advantages when accepting crypto through QR codes:

• Reduced risk of chargebacks. Blockchain transactions are irreversible. Once a customer sends funds, the transaction cannot be reversed. It reduces fraud linked to payment disputes.
• Lower costs. Crypto payments avoid intermediaries, which can reduce processing expenses.
• Speed of settlement. In many cases, funds arrive in seconds or minutes.
• Flexibility. QR codes can be used in-store, at events, or online. Businesses can expand to customers across regions.
• Multi-currency support. Merchants can accept various coins using a unified system. It opens access to customers who use different digital assets.

"Accepting cryptocurrency is important for future-proofing your business, sure. But, it’s also about tapping into a global market, cutting costs, and offering a more secure, efficient way to transact right now."

Max Krupyshev

CEO of CoinsPaid

Disclaimer: This statement reflects the personal opinion of the speaker and is provided for informational purposes only. It should not be interpreted as investment advice or an endorsement.

How the CoinsPaid QR code payment solution works

CoinsPaid offers a payment QR code feature that facilitates cryptocurrency transactions. Businesses should assess available options to determine suitability and compliance with relevant regulations.

Merchants can integrate a crypto solution by CoinsPaid or the whole crypto payment ecosystem into websites, point-of-sale devices, or mobile apps. The solution supports custom APIs for technical teams.

CoinsPaid QR codes enable fast and secure cryptocurrency transactions. Merchants can embed the solution into websites, point-of-sale devices, or mobile apps. The system supports integration through custom APIs.

To improve the user experience, the payment form should include a clickable QR code, a linked crypto address, the current or approximate exchange rate, a minimum deposit limit, and a notice about the required cryptocurrency.

Payment flow with CoinsPaid QR code:

1. QR code generation begins with encoding a URI that contains the wallet address. It can be done using an API provided by a trusted QR code service.
2. API request parameters define what the QR code includes. Key parameters are data encoded (the wallet address) and the size of the QR code.
3. QR code placement happens at the required location (website, payment form, or physical interface).

Once these steps are completed, the process continues as described in the How crypto QR codes work section.

Real-life use cases of QR codes in crypto environments

Businesses across many sectors can use QR code to accept crypto payments:

• Retail. In physical stores, QR codes can be placed at checkout counters. Staff show the customer the code on a screen or a printed sheet. The customer scans and confirms the payment.
• Restaurants and cafes. Restaurants can offer contactless payments with QR codes on receipts or menu cards. Dynamic codes help match payments with specific orders.
• Online merchants. eCommerce sites can display QR codes on the final checkout screen as an extra option. It makes cross-device payments easier, especially when customers browse on laptops but pay using mobile wallets.
• Events and tickets. QR codes can be used to both sell and validate tickets. They link to payment pages and reduce fraud risk. Event organizers can also track scans for analytics.

How to start accepting crypto with CoinsPaid

Trusted by hundreds of merchants worldwide, CoinsPaid makes crypto acceptance easier than ever.

How to get started:

1. Submit a request on the website.
2. A CoinsPaid manager contacts you to clarify details and propose a suitable setup.
3. The team integrates the solution into your platform.
4. You begin accepting crypto payments.

CoinsPaid supports different business models, from online stores and restaurants to event services. QR-based payments fit into existing workflows without significant changes. Merchants benefit from reliable infrastructure, multi-currency support, and a system built for consistent performance.

Crypto is part of modern payment methods. QR codes make the process direct for both businesses and customers.

This content is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. Please ensure that any use of crypto services complies with the laws and regulations applicable in your jurisdiction.