Security Technologies
Our paper products are protected by a variety of overt (obvious) and covert (unknown) security features. Depending upon the intended application, Protected Paper's layered approach to printing includes a combination of the base paper stock, custom artwork, patented AuthentiGuard technologies, use of security inks, as well as a variety of finishing techniques. We combine these anti-copy and alter-resistant techniques to provide a product that is both effective and affordable.
Protected Paper's team of research and development experts continually evaluate and upgrade our technologies to ensure that they remain among the strongest in the industry. Below is a listing of these security features, accompanied with a brief description of each...
Base Paper Stock
Our initial defense against counterfeiting and document alteration starts at the paper mill. Our base paper is a Premium 60# Opaque Text that is acid free, UV dull and has chemical sensitivity to solvents (will stain).
Our paper is compatible with Digital Printing, Laser Printing, Inkjet Printing and Offset Printing.
Pantograph 4000
(Original) (Attempted B&W Copy / Fax) (Attempted Color Copy / Scan)
All of our paper products are protected by AuthentiGuard Pantograph 4000. This patented technology involves the printing of hidden text messages ("VOID", "COPY", "UNAUTHORIZED COPY", etc.) into the background of a document. Text information or other artwork is placed onto this paper. Then, when this "original" is copied or scanned, the hidden word pattern becomes visible on the duplicate. The end result - a clearly distinguishable copy that can not pass off as the original.
Similar technologies exist, but none have the power or effectiveness of Pantograph 4000.
Blockout
(Original) (Attempted Color Copy / Scan)
This anti-copy technology is meant to provide protection against certain model high-end color copiers.
Block-Out provides an additional layer of security to protect your document against counterfeiting attempts using high-end digital copiers or scanners. Block-Out uses a graphic element that causes the output of high-end digital color copiers and scanners to be completely black, severely distorted or fail to copy at all.
Block-Out designs are embedded into original artwork, photographs and other important information that requires protection against unauthorized duplication. Block-Out technology can be placed on most any type of printable substrate, making it ideal for a multitude of applications including ID cards, product warranties, discount coupons, commercial photo proofing and ticketing.
Prism
AuthentiGuard Prism is a cost effective and convenient method of determining the authenticity of various types of printed material - i.e. vital records, dollar-off coupons, identification documents, tickets and most any other application that might require immediate on-site authentication. Our patented Prism technique embeds hidden words, images, or logos into the original artwork, using a two or 4-color printing process. These images only become visible using our Authenticator device - a proprietary lens that reveals the hidden Prism messages. Customizable and low cost, AuthentiGuard's Prism technology resist reproduction with digital copiers or scanners.
Custom Borders & Background Art
Our design team has access to a fully range of Guilloche (bank note quality) border and background designs that not only adds a touch of elegance to your document, but also provides an additional layer of security against illegal copying, as this computer-generated fine-line artwork is extremely difficult to capture and reproduce - plus all of these designs are fully customizable.
Heat-Sensitive Security Ink
Used in combination with an overt warning band, we make use of Thermochromic security ink. These heat-reactive formulations are made to either disappear or change colors at a trigger temperature of 88F (32C). Authentication is quick and easy. Simply rub the document in the protected area and if this reaction does not occur, you know there's a problem.
Erasable Ink
This specialty ink is used in the background designs on most every document that we manufacture. When applied properly, this ink will disappear when an eraser is used in an attempt to change the variable information that is printed or handwritten onto the document. To prevent illicit alternations on any document, this is likely your best protection available.
Coin Activated Ink
True watermark (also known as Fourdrinier watermark) paper is very expensive, especially if requiring full customization. Our artificial watermark serves the same purpose of authentication, but is significantly less expensive. Plus, is easily customizable. Usually placed on the backside of the document, this step-and-repeat image is scratched with a coin, at which time the artwork turns black, or when viewed at an angle it appears whiter, like a watermark.
DSS Protected Papers
With many patents and patent pending applications outstanding, DSS Protected Papers is continually looking for ways to improve upon the security features that we offer. A large portion of these developments are the result of communicating with our clients - evaluating their needs and developing solutions to their problems.
Still unclear as to how these security features work or which would be most effective based upon your particular application?
We'll be glad to assist you in finding a solution.