Error: "No usable data found" when attempting to scan a QR code to set up the Microsoft Authenticator app

Symptoms

You receive the message below when attempting to scan a QR code to set up the Microsoft Authenticator app:

No usable data found.

example screenshot

Cause

You are using your phone's built-in camera app to scan the QR code.

Resolution

You should use the Microsoft Authenticator app to scan the QR code. Please follow Microsoft's instructions to properly get the prompt on the app to scan the QR code.

Outcome

The message "No usable data found" will no longer appear.