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Privacy Policy

ReadBarcode.com is a client-side toolkit. Your scans stay on your device.

ReadBarcode.com provides free online barcode tools — readers, decoders, validators, and a GS1 Digital Link parser. This page explains what information we do and do not collect when you use those tools.

What stays on your device

All barcode decoding — including the online barcode reader, QR code reader, and Data Matrix reader — runs inside your browser. Images, camera frames, and decoded values are processed locally and are never transmitted to our servers.

The inventory scanner and batch barcode tools store working data in your browser's local storage. You can clear it at any time from your browser settings.

What we may collect

  • Standard server access logs (IP, user agent, requested URL) for security and abuse prevention.
  • Aggregated, anonymised analytics about which tools are used, if enabled.
  • Information you voluntarily submit through the contact form.

Third parties

We do not sell or rent personal data. We may use infrastructure providers (hosting, CDN) that process request metadata to deliver the site.

Changes

We may update this policy as the product evolves. Material changes will be reflected on this page.

About this page

This privacy notice describes how the ReadBarcode.com online barcode tools handle your data. Because every decoder is a client-side web app, there is very little data for us to collect — your scans, photos, and inventory lists stay on your device.

When to use it

  • Before using the tools in a regulated or healthcare setting.
  • When evaluating whether to embed ReadBarcode.com in an internal workflow.
  • If you need to confirm that barcode images aren't uploaded.
  • Before sharing the site with colleagues for inventory work.

How it works

  1. 1Step 1
    Local decoding

    All barcode parsing runs in the browser via WebAssembly.

  2. 2Step 2
    Local storage

    Inventory and batch lists live in your browser only.

  3. 3Step 3
    Minimal logs

    Standard request logs are retained for security.

What to avoid

  • Don't assume HIPAA/PHI-grade controls — this is a free public tool.
  • Don't paste secrets or personal identifiers expecting server-side encryption.
  • Don't rely on local storage as a backup; it can be cleared by the browser.

Tips & tricks

  • Use private/incognito mode if you don't want local storage to persist.
  • Export inventory or batch results to CSV regularly.
  • Pair with the GTIN validator to keep master data clean.

FAQ

Do you upload my barcode images to a server?

No. Every barcode reader and decoder on ReadBarcode.com runs entirely in your browser using WebAssembly. Images you select or camera frames you capture never leave your device.

Do you store the barcode values I scan or paste?

No. We don't persist scan history server-side. Tools like the inventory scanner keep data in your browser's local storage only — clearing browser data wipes it.

Do you use cookies?

We use only essential cookies and similar storage (such as localStorage) to keep the site working — for example, remembering inventory list state. We do not set advertising cookies.

Do you use analytics?

We may use privacy-respecting, aggregated analytics to understand which tools are used most. We do not sell personal data and we do not associate analytics with the barcode values you decode.

How can I contact you about privacy?

Use the contact page to reach us with privacy questions, data requests, or takedown notices.

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