Security Labels
Security labels for secure product handling
Security labels help reveal whether a product, pack or piece of equipment has been opened or tampered with. Depending on their construction, they can leave a visible pattern or message, break apart when removed or prevent reuse. Security labels can also incorporate unique numbering, barcodes or QR codes for product identification and traceability.
Different types of security labels
Security labels come in several forms. The right solution depends on what the label needs to protect, the surface it will be applied to and the type of tamper evidence required.
VOID labels
VOID labels are a common type of tamper-evident label. If someone attempts to remove the label, the word VOID, a pattern or another security marking becomes visible. Depending on the construction, this evidence may appear on the label, the application surface or both. VOID labels are used to seal packaging, electronics, equipment, documents and other products where it is important to see whether the seal has been broken.
Destructible labels
Destructible security labels are made from a material that breaks or fragments when someone attempts to remove them. This prevents the label from being removed intact and transferred to another product without visible evidence of tampering. Typical applications include warranty seals, equipment identification and products where label reuse needs to be discouraged.
Labels that cause fibre tear offer another form of destructive tamper evidence. When the label is removed, it tears away fibres from the outer surface of the packaging to which it is attached, leaving visible damage.
Tamper-evident seals and warranty labels
Tamper-evident seals are used to seal packaging, containers, equipment and other products, providing a clear indication if the seal has been broken. Warranty labels work in a similar way and can be applied to products and equipment where a broken label indicates opening or tampering. The label can also carry a company name, logo, serial number or other identifying information.
Holographic security labels
Holographic labels use optical effects that change with the viewing angle. They provide a visible security feature to help verify a product’s authenticity and can be combined with other features, such as VOID technology, numbering or QR codes. Holographic solutions are used in product and brand protection to make counterfeiting more difficult and support visual checks.
Security labels with QR codes and barcodes
A security label can also incorporate a QR code or barcode, combining physical tamper evidence with digital or identifying information. Unique codes can support product identification, traceability, service history tracking or checks on individual products.
