How do I check if a product is genuine?

If the pack carries a FirstScanIt code, checking it takes three steps and a few seconds. It is free, and you do not need an app or an account.

Three steps to check a pack

Find the QR code on the packIt is printed on the label, strip or box, usually near the batch number and expiry date.
Point your phone camera at itAny modern Android phone or iPhone works. Tap the link that appears.
Read the resultGreen means genuine. Amber means take a closer look. Red means do not buy. The page also shows the maker, batch, dates and how many times this pack has been checked.

What does each result mean?

The five results

✓ GENUINE

The maker signed this code and its history looks normal. Safe to buy.

! SCANNED BEFORE

A real code that was checked before. Look at the count and first-scan city.

✕ NOT SIGNED

The maker did not create this code, or it was altered. Do not buy.

✕ RECALLED

The maker has pulled this batch. Do not use it.

◷ EXPIRED

Genuine, but past its expiry date. The date is shown.

Each result has an icon and a word as well as a colour.

See what a buyer sees

Try a situation

Genuine product

Signature verified. First check of this pack.

Product: Sample Paracetamol 500 mg
Maker: Sample Pharma Ltd
Batch: SPL2609A
Expiry: Aug 2028
Times checked: 1
First check: Pune (this scan)
Status: Valid

Sample product. Illustration only, not a live check.

Shopper questions

Do I need to install an app to check a product?

No. Your phone’s normal camera opens a web page with the result, in English or any of 22 Indian languages.

Does it cost anything to check a product?

No. Checking is always free and unlimited. You only use a little mobile data to open the page.

Can someone just copy the QR code?

They can photocopy it, but they cannot change it or create new valid ones. A copied code shows up as the same pack appearing in many places, and FirstScanIt warns buyers and alerts the maker.

I scanned my own pack twice. Is that a problem?

No. The code stays valid and the result shows that it was checked before, with the count. Scanning your own pack again is normal.

My sealed pack says “scanned before”. What should I do?

Look at the first-scan city and date on the result. If neither you nor the shop scanned it, ask the shop or choose another pack.

What should I do if I see a red result?

Do not buy or use the product. If you already bought it, keep the pack and the bill. The maker is alerted automatically.

Do I have to share personal details to check a product?

No. There is no sign-up and no name is asked for. An approximate location is recorded with the scan so the maker can see where fakes appear.

What if my product has no FirstScanIt code?

Then the maker has not joined FirstScanIt yet, and the check does not apply to that product. Buy from a licensed shop and keep the bill.

Next steps

How does it work?How a maker-signed QR code lets any phone confirm a product is genuine, how copied codes are caught, and how recalls reach buyers.Pharmacies and distributorsNothing is required from pharmacies or distributors. Those who want more can check incoming stock and scan the same code at the counter to bill.What is FirstScanIt?FirstScanIt puts a maker-signed QR code on every pack. Anyone can scan it with a phone camera, with no app, and see in seconds if the product is genuine.

FirstScanIt provides technology-assisted verification based on the maker’s digital signature and scan records. Plain-text version