It can only be hoped that WeChat will recognise the existing security risk and fix it. ![]() This combination of a QR code and security feature acts as a kind of “security door” and ensures that all the measures planned by the brand are protected from third parties. Within a few seconds, users verify the authenticity of the product using the security feature and are then taken to the desired offers, e.g. When users scan a QR code, they are taken to an intuitive online authentication process. Each QR code would be linked to a tamper-proof security feature. These risks could easily be eliminated by adding a physical level of security to the printed codes. Protecting QR codes from counterfeiters with physical security features The decisions taken are without any foundation and can do serious damage to a brand’s business development. However, if the QR codes have been copied by counterfeiters, this data is distorted. These in turn form the basis for business decisions. And it’s true – data from all the above measures enables valuable conclusions to be drawn about customer behaviour. WeChat also uses the data collected through this system in particular for advertising. Competitions and winnings payouts can be manipulated. This can have serious consequences for companies that use this system: Counterfeits can be furnished with the copied QR code and, undetected, be sold as originals. In a country such as China in particular, where professional counterfeiters are a major problem, simple printed codes are not reliable. Simple printed codes such as QR codes are not protected against reproduction. ![]() Printed QR codes can easily be copied and used by counterfeiters According to WeChat, brands can use the “one object, one code" system to selectively control marketing measures, attract users to the brand account, combat counterfeiting and gather important data on customer behaviour. With the new service from WeChat, each branded product is equipped with a unique QR code. It also fits with the strategy of its parent company, Tencent, who wants to improve its offerings for B2B customers. So it stands to reason that WeChat is now offering a QR code service for business customers. Chinese customers are used to using QR codes on products to take part in competitions, obtain product information or verify a product’s authenticity. “Mobile first”: China is the land of smartphones and QR codes.
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