WhatsApp QR Code Not Working During Setup

1. QR Code Expired

QR codes for WhatsApp linking have a short time limit. If you waited too long before scanning:

• Fix. Refresh the page to generate a new QR code
• Tip: Scan within 30 seconds of the code appearing on screen

2. Camera or Scanning Issue

The phone's camera may not be reading the code properly.

• Ensure good lighting and hold the phone steady
• Clean the camera lens
• Try increasing screen brightness on the device displaying the QR code
• If available, use the "Link with phone number" option instead of QR scanning

3. WhatsApp App Not Updated

Older versions of WhatsApp may not support the current linking flow.

• Fix. Update WhatsApp to the latest version from your app store
• Check your version: WhatsApp > Settings > Help > App Info

4. Maximum Linked Devices Reached

WhatsApp limits the number of devices linked to a single account (currently 4 linked devices).

• Fix. Go to WhatsApp > Settings > Linked Devices
• Remove a device you no longer use
• Then try scanning the QR code again

5. Network Issues

Both the phone and the device displaying the QR code need an active internet connection (they don't need to be on the same network).

• Check the phone's internet connection
• Check the computer's connection
• Try switching between WiFi and mobile data on the phone

6. Account Restrictions

If your WhatsApp account has been restricted or flagged by Meta, linking to new devices may be blocked.

• Open WhatsApp on the phone. Look for any warning messages
• If your account shows restrictions, resolve those first before attempting to link

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Once the scan works:

If the scan succeeds but the connection drops shortly after, the issue may be related to session management or multiple active sessions.

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If none of the above resolves your QR code issue:

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