Many events these days use mobile tickets with QR codes or barcodes instead of traditional paper tickets. This allows for quick, contactless entry to venues by scanning your phone screen rather than handing over a paper ticket. However, sometimes issues can arise if your phone dies or you accidentally delete the mobile ticket app before the event. In these cases, some people have tried using a screenshot of the ticket barcode instead of the mobile ticket itself. This raises the question – will a screenshot of a barcode or QR code ticket work for entry?
The Short Answer
In most cases, a screenshot of a barcode or QR code ticket will not work and will be rejected by the ticket scanner. Venues are generally able to detect screenshots rather than original digital tickets and will deny entry on that basis. There are some exceptions where simple barcode screenshots may work if the venue does not utilize advanced screening, but it is not recommended to rely on a screenshot for event entry.
Why Screenshots Do Not Work
There are a few key reasons why screenshots of barcode and QR code tickets often fail to grant access to events:
Lack of Live Data
Mobile tickets work by transmitting live data to the venue’s scanners in real-time. This allows them to instantly validate the ticket and that multiple people are not using the same code to enter. A screenshot only contains a picture of the code itself – not the actual underlying data. Without the live data exchange, the scanner has no way to effectively verify the ticket.
No Connection
In addition to live data, scanners also rely on a consistent connection to the ticket provider’s servers to crosscheck entries in real-time. A screenshot contains no connectivity back to the ticket source. So there is no external confirmation accessible beyond the static screenshot image itself.
Easily Edited
Since a screenshot is just a static image, it can be easily edited using common photo editing tools. QR codes and barcodes could potentially be manipulated to allow multiple people to use the same code. Venues use live connections to prevent this, but a screenshot presents an easy opportunity for manipulation.
Outdated Data
Screenshots can also contain outdated ticket data that has since been updated or revoked in the live ticketing system. If you take a screenshot of a ticket early, the ticket provider may update important information like seat assignments, access levels, or even cancel the ticket altogether in the time leading up to the event. The screenshot will not dynamically update to reflect these kinds of changes.
Are There Exceptions?
While screenshots largely do not work for ticket entry, there are some limited exceptions where they may be accepted:
Simple Barcodes
For tickets with very simple 1D or 2D barcodes containing only basic identifying numbers or letters, a clear screenshot may work in some cases. If the venue does not use advanced screening and only does a basic barcode scan, the numbers/letters can still scan accurately. However, any additional embedded data would be missing.
Inattentive Staff
At events with manual visual ticket checks instead of electronic scanners, inattentive staff may inadvertently accept a screenshot. However, more attentive gate keepers should easily notice the difference between app tickets and static screenshots.
Technical Issues
In rare cases of technical issues where scanners are down and cannot connect to the ticket provider, staff may resort to manual visual checks. This could potentially allow a screenshot to slip through if gate staff do not look closely for signs of editing. However, this would be a rare exception case.
Best Practices
To ensure you can securely access events using mobile tickets, follow these best practices:
Save Your Tickets
Be sure to download your tickets early and store them in the app’s secure ticket wallet. Avoid relying on email attachments or screenshots. Also download tickets for any group members you are attending with.
Store Tickets on Multiple Devices
Download and store your tickets on multiple devices like your phone, tablet, or print a paper backup if available. This provides redundancies in case a device is lost, damaged, or runs out of power before the event.
Charge Devices Fully
Make sure any device storing your tickets is fully charged before leaving for the event. Bring an external battery pack for additional power capacity if needed. Dead devices mean no ticket access.
Connect to WiFi in Advance
If the ticket app requires internet connectivity, connect to WiFi in advance while you still have signal. This ensures you have any required updates and avoids connection issues later at crowded venues.
Open Apps Early
Be sure to open apps containing tickets at least 5-10 minutes prior to reaching the venue entrance. This avoids any last minute connectivity or loading issues that could delay entry.
Know Your Venue’s Policies
Check your event’s website and social media for specific mobile ticket policies and recommendations to ensure a smooth entry experience. Different venues may have different screening procedures.
What If My Tickets Don’t Work?
If you encounter issues accessing your tickets once onsite:
– Remain calm – venue staff are there to help. Politely explain your situation.
– Try force closing and reopening the app. Reboot your device if needed.
– Connect to onsite WiFi or use mobile data if connectivity is the issue.
– Ask staff to try manually verifying ticket numbers if scanners are down.
– As a last resort, politely ask for a supervisor for additional assistance.
Be prepared that you may need to purchase replacement tickets if mobile issues cannot be resolved onsite.
Key Takeaways
– Screenshots of barcode/QR code tickets typically will not work for venue entry due to lack of live data.
– Simple barcodes may occasionally work at less secure venues but are not reliable.
– Always store actual digital tickets in advance on multiple devices as a backup.
– Follow best practices for keeping devices charged and maintaining connectivity.
– If tickets fail, politely ask staff for assistance and be prepared to possibly purchase replacements.
Conclusion
Mobile ticketing offers convenience but also some risk if you do not follow best practices. To avoid denied entry, always store the actual digital tickets in advance on multiple devices rather than relying on just screenshots alone. With proper preparation, you can enjoy a smooth entry experience and seamless access to concerts, games, conferences and any events requiring mobile ticket access.
