Tamper evident tape is a simple and cost effective solution for improving the security of various packaged goods as it acts as an effective deterrent against anyone who tries to open the packaging and pretend they haven't done so.



In other words, tamper evident tapes are hologram tapes used for security purposes. These tapes are used on cartons, cardboards, painted surface, metals, glass, plastic boxes and leave a semi-permanent signal on the surface. The tamper evident tapes are used to providing a security seal for letters, cartons, pallets, bags or other containers. These tapes are produced in such a way so that they are compatible with a wide variety of surfaces.

Basic Feature of a Tamper Evident Tape

Tamper Evident Tape provides a security seal. The basic feature of such a tape is that after application, when removed the tape will self destruct leaving words or symbols on the package or carton and in the security tape itself. Generally words like "OPEN/VOID/CANCELLED" or dots or checkboard pattens appear once the tape is removed.

Types of Tamper Evident Tape

Today, there are numerous options available when buying tamper evident tape. It is very important to realize that nothing is tamper resistant or tamper proof. If someone wants to tamper with a product they will be able to. The only difference is that with tamper evident tape, you get the indication that that something has been tampered with. This tamper indication is attained with the help of pressure-sensitive adhesives and materials.

The different types of tamper evident tapes that are available are as follows:

• Custom Printed Carton Sealing Tape
  This is the most common type of tamper evident tape. Generally, the first question that comes up when buying security tapes is "what are you trying to secure, and on what surface?" The common answer for this is usually high valued items packaged in corrugated cartons. Corrugated cartons have a common surface or substrate but there are different types to choose from like smooth, rough, coated or recycled. Some tamper evident tapes work great on some surfaces while poorly on some others. Custom printed carton sealing tape is considered to be the least expensive option. The tape material is usually a PVC or polypropylene and there is an aggressive adhesive suitable for boxes. There are different colors available with imprints and some patterns. If the tamper evident tape is cut and then covered over by clear tape, the imprint will need to line up exactly. Otherwise tampering is indicated.
  
  
  
  
  
  
• Destructible Film Tape
  Another style of tape is the destructible film that flakes when an attempt is made to peel it away. This is used more widely on consumer medicines and food packaging. This is considered very expensive for carton sealing applications. But this is a good option for the smaller jar or bag sealing applications. The security tape is usually imprinted with a diagonal message that says "do not purchase if seal is broken." It also has serrated edges to further prevent peeling away. Relining up the imprint is very difficult once the tape is cut. Hence, this indicates that the tape has been tampered with.
  
  
• VOID or Evidence Tape
  This is the most popular and the most expensive security tape options. When the tape is peeled away, there is a message imprint left behind on the adhesive residue. The message displays a VOID or OPENED message. The tape is used to seal almost anything.
  
  

How Secure is the Tamper Evident Tape?

The tape for sealing a carton or any packaged item is either cut or peeled away, though the cut option is more common. If a person plans on tampering with a carton, he will more likely cut the tape, then seal it over with another tape or a clear tape. This is where the imprint is important. When a small pattern of the tape is cut, it needs to be lined up if the box is resealed and this is difficult. That is why tamper evident tapes are secured because they easily give an indication that they are tampered with.

Uses of Tamper Evident Tapes

Tamper evident tapes are ideal for use on cardboard and other forms of outer packaging. This is because they leave a semi-permanent signal on the surface to which they are applied. Typical users include

• Computer hardware
• Computer software
• Mobile phone
• Medicines
• Food packaging
• Shipping cartons
• Electrical goods packaging

Using this tape, sellers or manufacturers would benefit from knowing whether packaging has been tampered with.