Startup founder arrested for QR code stunt

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: A Bengaluru start-up founder found himself in trouble after he was discovered sticking QR codes of his product in a metro station washroom.

The metro security staff lodged a complaint against him for this unauthorised action, leading to his arrest by the Bengaluru police.

The founder identified as Arun, a chocolate entrepreneur, opted for "Guerrilla marketing," employing unconventional methods to promote his company.

Arun distributed posters with QR codes linking to his chocolate company's Instagram page, urging passersby to "Impress your loved ones with dzir. SCAN ME."

He admitted to placing QR codes in washrooms across Green Line stations but was apprehended by security personnel at the Purple Line’s Deepanjali Nagar metro station on April 23.

Reportedly, Arun confessed his ignorance of metro regulations and issued an apology for his actions.

Charges have been filed under the Prevention of Destruction and Loss of Property Act, Karnataka Open Places (Prevention of Disfigurement) Act, and IPC section 427 (mischief causing damage to the amount of fifty rupees).

Arun was subsequently released on bail, with police indicating that he would be summoned for further questioning.