Advanced Materials Allow For Embedded ID Card Security Features
When it comes to security features on ID cards and other identity credentials, it’s often the holograms and ultra-violet inks that get a lot of the glory. But adding embedded ID card security features into the advanced card materials that make up the card itself can go a long way toward confounding counterfeiters. There are three categories of identity credential security features:
Overt
Also known as Level 1 features. These are visible to the naked eye or are tactile and can be felt via touch. They include elements such as holograms, colored inks, and security threads.
Covert
Level 2 features are only visible to trained examiners. They require using basic, readily available tools such as lights or magnifying lenses. Covert features include ultraviolet images, hidden text or images, and other hidden items embedded into a document.
Forensic
Level 3 features can only be viewed using microscopes or other specialized equipment in laboratory settings. Forensic features include nanotech and nano images, and document DNA or substrate analysis.
Embedding Further Security
Embedding ID card security features into an advanced card material substrate can go a long way. For example, Teslin is a paper-like substrate that increases the durability of documents and enables the inclusion of secure printing and other security elements. These are dots and particles that will give a visible response to infrared or ultraviolet light. Teslin can be printed with different ultraviolet or infrared security elements that are unique to an issuer. And having unique elements like Teslin within your card can “raise the bar” against counterfeiters.
Powerful security options are commonly used in electronic passports, national IDs, and driver’s licenses, but they can also be ideal for smaller issuers with high-security needs. The difference lies in the addition of data within the document. With PVC and polyester composite cards, the data is added to the core of the card and then protected with a laminate. Security features such as holograms can be added to each of these layers, but it adds complexity and cost to the credential.
The team at ADVANTIDGE has assisted organizations in creating secure, cost-effective identity management solutions with 40 years of combined industry experience. We offer enterprise security solutions surrounding ID badge issuance, HID visitor management systems, multi-factor authentication, and all physical access control system upgrades required for maximum student and employee security.
To find out more about how ADVANTIDGE can provide a robust and complete security solution designed for the needs of your organization, contact us here.
