As the world becomes more technologically advanced, it is important to innovate new ways to protect your brand and your products from the threat over counterfeiting and fraud. However, there are some tried and tested technologies which have stood the test of time, including adding security thread into your documents or product and packaging. In this blog we’ll explore what security thread is and how it can be used to protect your documents and products, together with how this methodology continues to evolve to stay ahead of counterfeiters and prevent fraud.
What is security thread?
Security thread is one of the main identifiable security features of almost all banknotes, passports, and ID cards. Multiple layers of substrate are laminated together in a complex and intricate construction with a bespoke combination of features to create a unique thread. The unique manufacturing of security threads combines different security functions into a singular thread to ensure that they are near impossible to replicate or forge.
They are manufactured using plastic strip, often incorporating metalisation. The strips themselves contain unique design features; microprinting, colourshift, florecense and holographic technology in layers of security that change in appearance at certain angles and lighting. The threads cannot be duplicated in photocopiers or printers and require controlled equipment to manufacture. These combined features provide for further protection from fraudsters and counterfeiters.
Aside overt (visible) security features, covert features are also often included. These can include elements only readable by machine or to trained personnel. These are often invisible to the naked eye, and therefore highly resistance to counterfeit attacks.
The integration of security threads
Due to the specialist way the security thread is embedded or woven into the paper or fused under immense heat and pressure into polycarbonate make it impossible to remove without damaging the document of packaging. Likewise, it is extremely difficult to add thread to forged documents without highly specialist knowledge and equipment, which further prevents counterfeiting.
The role of security thread in preventing counterfeiting
Security threads have been expertly developed over many years to prevent accurate re-printing of paper and now polycarbonate documents. The complex, unique designs and the specialist way the thread is woven into the paper or polycarbonate make it incredibly difficult for counterfeiters to be able to replicate the thread or the way it is embedded. This in turn makes it much easier and quicker to identify any forged documents as it will stand out that the security thread is either not there, or not identical to the authentic documents.
Implementing security thread into your secure documents, products or packaging is one of the foundational building blocks to preventing counterfeiting and should be an integral part of your overall brand protection or secure Identification strategy. Security thread can be used alongside a number of other techniques and considerations in order to effectively protect from counterfeiting activities and attacks.
Security thread solutions from De La Rue
At De La Rue, we produce security threads that are compatible with identity cards and passports as well as currency and packaging. We have developed a unique solution that allows us to weave the secure holographic thread through the paper construction and hold Joint IP with our partners at Melzer to incorporate thread into fused Polycarbonate construction. We’re able to offer these security threads in a range of design and width options to meet your own requirements.
Discover more about our security thread solutions and how we can help you develop a robust end-to-end document and product protection strategy.
