Let's Start With The History Of Security Seals
The origin of security seals dates back at least to the days of Pharaohs and Kings when official seals were carved in stone, metal or wood. The "seal" was pressed into melted wax, used to close documents and containers of valuables while in transit by messengers. The impression of the seal in wax, if disturbed, or replaced with a forgery, would indicate to the receiver that the document had been opened or tampered. The job of inspecting these seals often fell to a scribe or other servant who knew the seal intimately and could readily see a forgery or tampering. The modern security seal serves essentially the same purpose.
Pansion Of Security Seals And Their Uses
Originally, there were only a few seal types (mainly made of lead, or tinplate steel), with some variations. Through the last century, uses and number of security seal types proliferated into thousands. Growth in trucking and over-the-road delivery spawned many more seals and seal uses. Then international ocean containers created an entire industry of heavy bolt and cable devices to secure the doors. Plastics, heavy metal, cable, and wires are now used to make mechanical seals ranging from small and simple lightweight plastic security seals to large iron and steel devices that serve as barriers to unauthorized opening.
More recent developments include advanced electronic devices with RFID data recording and monitoring functions, remote reading, GPS tracking and more. There are also new adhesive labels and tapes, holographic images, thermal activated inks, and high-tech printed adhesives that leave an impression and/or destroy a printed pattern if the security tape is removed.
Security Seals, What Are They Good For?
Security seals are a tool to deter and detect unauthorized opening of a closure. They differ from locks in that they are intended to be used only once, and then destroyed. Early seals were intentionally made to be easily cut open after use. By around 1980 the added dimension of a high strength barrier seal became popular in transportation. Now, some security seals function both as a strong disposable lock and a seal -- to provide evidence of entry or violation.
When security seals are found tampered with or violated, it is the tampering indicators which allow the user to begin investigating, ultimately catching and stopping the violator. The seal does not stop entry. But a higher strength security seal can slow a thief, and reduces the likelihood of vandalism or theft of "convenience" by someone with no concern for leaving evidence.
Seal violation takes various forms: opening and closing and hiding the breakpoint to fool the observer, substitution of parts, modification of marking, or substitution of whole (clone) seals. The initial discovery of tampering may take place when the seal is cut and taken out of use. It may also be found on examination of the seal after it is opened by the user and checked at another location. If not examined by an informed person, tampering with or violation of the security seal may not be discovered at all.
Once discovered, the process is normally one of systematically narrowing the time and/or place the violation occurs. This tells an investigator who could potentially be violating (or attempting to violate) a secured container or device.
Stronger security seals require stronger tools and more time to remove. However, for investigative and enforcement purposes they serve the same function as lighter seals. With systematic inspection and observation, all tamper evident seals can help catch or deter thieves.
How Effective Are Security Seals?
Security seals are an important tool in tamper-evidence and asset protection. Their effectiveness depends on various factors, including the type of seal, its intended application, and the environment in which it is used. Here's a breakdown of their effectiveness:
Strengths of Security Seals:
Tamper Evidence:
Security seals provide a clear visual indication if tampering has occurred. For example, broken, altered, or missing seals alert users to potential unauthorized access.
Deter Theft and Unauthorized Access:
The presence of a security seal can act as a psychological deterrent. Knowing that tampering will be evident discourages unauthorized attempts.
Tracking and Accountability:
Many seals come with unique identifiers (e.g., serial numbers, barcodes) to maintain a chain of custody, making it easier to track goods and identify tampering.
Cost-Effectiveness:
Compared to other security measures like surveillance systems or electronic locks, security seals are relatively inexpensive and easy to deploy.
Versatility:
Security seals come in a variety of types (e.g., bolt seals, cable seals, plastic seals, adhesive seals) suited for different applications, such as shipping containers, vehicles, or retail packaging.
Limitations of Security Seals:
Not Tamper-Proof:
Security seals are tamper-evident but not tamper-proof. Skilled individuals with the right tools can sometimes remove and replace them without detection.
Susceptible to Environmental Damage:
Environmental factors like extreme heat, cold, or moisture can degrade some types of seals, potentially causing them to fail or break unintentionally.
Dependency on Inspection:
Their effectiveness relies on regular and thorough inspection. If seals are not checked properly, tampering can go unnoticed.
Counterfeiting Risk:
Low-quality or uncustomized seals are more prone to counterfeiting, which undermines their effectiveness.
Limited Standalone Security:
Seals provide tamper evidence but do not physically prevent access like locks or barriers. They are often used as part of a broader security system.
Enhancing the Effectiveness of Security Seals:
Choose the Right Seal for the Job:
Use seals that match the security level required (e.g., high-security bolt seals for shipping containers versus simple plastic seals for retail).
Custom Seals:
Opt for seals with unique features, such as company logos, holograms, or QR codes, to reduce the risk of counterfeiting.
Regular Inspection Protocols:
Train personnel to check seals carefully and maintain detailed records for accountability.
Integration with Other Security Measures:
Combine security seals with locks, cameras, and alarm systems for a comprehensive security approach.
Environmental Suitability:
Select seals designed to withstand the specific conditions they will face, such as temperature extremes or chemical exposure.
In summary, security seals are highly effective as part of a layered security strategy. However, they should not be relied upon as the sole measure for protecting valuable assets or sensitive materials. Regular inspection and integration with other security measures are crucial for maximizing their utility.