The QR code displays in terminal but scanning it with WhatsApp gives 'Not Valid' or the connection drops immediately. In most cases, the underlying issue is baileys session mismatch — your local auth_info_multi folder is out of sync with WhatsApp's servers.
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High priorityTested by MilanVerified fix
WhatsApp QR Code Not Scanning
If you are seeing this exact OpenClaw issue, the fastest path is to confirm the likely cause, then work the recovery steps in order without skipping the full restart and retest sequence.
MilanLast updated Mar 10, 2026Verified recovery sequence documented in this repo
Likely Cause
Baileys session mismatch — your local auth_info_multi folder is out of sync with WhatsApp's servers.
Tags
WhatsAppAuth
Recovery Steps
- 1Stop OpenClaw completely (Ctrl+C or kill the process).
- 2Delete the auth_info_multi folder in your project root.
- 3Run openclaw start so a fresh QR can generate.
- 4Scan within 60 seconds before it expires.
- 5Avoid switching networks or devices mid-scan.
Related OpenClaw resources
Adjacent issue guides
Issue FAQ
These answers are written to be self-contained, so you can confirm the likely problem before you start changing your setup.
Work through the recovery steps in order and fully restart OpenClaw before retesting. Skipping the restart or leaving stale auth/config state in place usually causes the issue to return.
Move to the related guide or service link below so you can rule out adjacent configuration problems instead of repeating the same failed steps.
Still blocked?
If the steps above do not clear it, review the full fixes index or book direct troubleshooting help.