Security tape
Security tape is a type of adhesive tape used to help reduce shipping losses due to pilfering and reduce tampering or product adulteration. Often it is a pressure sensitive tape or label with special tamper resistant or tamper evident features. It can be used as a ‘’security seal’’ in addition to a container closure or can be used as a security label. They are sometimes used as or with authentication products and can be an anti-pilferage seal.
Security tapes and labels are sometimes used in conjunction with security envelopes.
label on a box
Use
Security tapes can be used as packaging tapes on small primary packages such as bottles and cartons or on larger shipping containers such as corrugated boxes. They are also used on unit loads or palletized goods. The strength and adhesive bonding are important. Security labels are usually only used for their security features; backing strength is less important but the bonding characteristics are critical.Some security tapes have an appearance similar to standard packaging tapes to help conceal the value of a pilferable item. Logistics and packaging professionals do not want to bring attention to the item or its package. Other security tapes have bright colors with high impact graphics.
Security tapes and labels are one part of a broader security system: No one layer of security can provide full protection to shipments of packages. Most security products can be foiled by a knowledgeable person with sufficient time and with access to specialized tools, solvents, extreme temperatures, other security tapes and labels, adhesives, etc.
Security tapes and labels usually add security to one point of entry to a container. Other points of unauthorized entry are sometimes available.
Security tapes are also used on access doors for temporary area denial and as tamper indicating seals for sensitive equipment. Some uses of security tapes require stability to sun and heat.
Construction
There are many types and constructions of tapes and labelsused for security. The use of security printing, holography, embossing, barcodes, RFID chips, etc. is common. Some tape strips and labels have sequential serial numbers, bar codes, etc. Custom printing with corporate logo, etc. is useful but needs to be revised periodically because of creative counterfeiters.
Many security tapes have extra strong backings and high performance adhesives; a damaged or partially open package can be an invitation to theft or tampering. High graphics can draw attention to a package during shipment.
Security tapes often have special features to indicate opening including:
- Intentionally weak or frangible components
- Printing which cannot easily be realigned after a cut or tear
- Layers which easily delaminate, showing entry or removal
- Hidden print layers which indicate opening
- Serrations or perforations to make one-piece removal more difficult
- rfid indicating systems
Interpretation
Sometimes a tape or label is intended to provide a signal of removal or of container tampering: imaging, delamination, fracture, etc. The desired outcome is for the tape or label to correctly indicate attempted or unauthorized container opening. Conversely, it should not signal tampering when there has not been tampering. This is a type of Binary classification.It may be possible to have a “false negative”: The label is intact yet tampering has occurred. Depending on the specific security tape/label, there may be specialized means of removing and reattaching the label, covering or obscuring the signaled/activated label, etc. Also tampering could have occurred in a different part of the container. A “false positive” may also be possible, either by accident or with intent.
| Tampering | No Tampering | |
| Tape/Label Signal | Correct Signal | False Positive |
| No Signal from Tape/Label | False Negative | Correct Signal |