Scanning the QR Code: Digital Empowerment during COVID-19

Abstract

This paper examines the digital empowerment facilitated by scanning QR codes during the COVID-19 pandemic. QR codes have become widely used in various fields in China, such as ordering, digital payment, and social media apps. Also, the action of “scanning QR codes” has become a daily activity that not only involves decoding patterns but also accessing valuable information. The action essentially becomes digital empowerment by enabling information retrieval and interaction. The Health Code System in China, which utilizes QR codes, is a significant case study that showcases the expands functionalities and usage scenarios of QR codes. This system records individuals' locations and assigns different colored codes based on their health status, aiding in contact tracing and infection control. However, the implementation of such systems is not solely driven by technology but also influenced by decision-making policies. The paper discusses the interplay between technology and biopolitics, emphasizing the impact of the Health Code System on people's lives from technological and political perspectives. Overall, this paper explores the development and impact of QR codes, highlighting their role in digital empowerment and their significance during the COVID-19 pandemic.