Frequently Asked Questions
About the Service
How does ILS Recovery Bureau work?
Attach a QR recovery tag to your item. If someone finds it, they scan the QR code with any smartphone — no app needed. You get an email alert (with the scan location if the finder shares it) and can message the finder through the site.
Do I need an app to scan the QR code?
No. Any modern smartphone camera can scan the QR code. Finders land on a public recovery page — no download or account needed.
Is the service free?
Yes. Posting a lost-item alert is free: one active listing at a time, live for 5 days. Paid upgrades are previews and not available to buy yet.
QR Tags
What happens when someone scans my tag?
You get an email alert. If the finder shares their location, it is included. The finder sees a recovery page with the contact options you chose, and can message you without seeing your email or phone number.
Do I need to reregister my tag if I change my phone?
No. Your QR tag links to your account, not your device. You can update your contact preferences and notification settings from any device.
How do I get physical QR tags?
Physical sticker tags are coming soon and can't be ordered yet. In the meantime you can post a free lost-item alert on the Lost & Found Board.
Lost & Found Board
Who can post to the Lost & Found Board?
Anyone with a free account can post one active listing at a time. Paid options for more listings are previews and not available yet.
How long does a listing stay active?
Free listings are active for 5 days. After a free listing ends, you can post a new one after a 24-hour cooldown.
Can I boost my listing?
Not yet. Boost is a preview and can't be purchased or applied to a listing.
Privacy & Safety
Are my personal details safe?
Absolutely. Your address and personal details are never shown publicly. Finders only see what you choose to display. Secure messaging keeps your contact details private.
Can the finder see my home address?
No. Never. Only you decide what information appears on your recovery page. Most owners display only a first name or alias and a reward message.
Rewards
Do I have to offer a reward?
No. Rewards are entirely optional. Many items are returned out of goodwill with no reward offered.
How does reward payment work?
If you offer a reward, payment is arranged directly between you and the finder using whatever method you both prefer (PayPal, Venmo, cash, etc.). ILS Recovery Bureau does not process reward payments.