Tamper resistance is the ability of a device to defend against a threat that has the objective to compromise the device and or the data processed by the device. Tamper resistance is applicable to cryptographic modules, but this characteristic could also be important for non-cryptographic devices that need to protect intellectual property, personal or financial data, or provide evidence of the device integrity for trust or warranty purposes. [1]

Figure 1. The Types of Tamper Resistance

Figure 1 shows Tamper-evident packaging (TEP) provides many benefits to brands and businesses in any industry, the most evident being security. If you are in pharmaceuticals, tamper-evident packaging is a requirement, in others it provides security throughout the supply chain and purchase by the consumer.

It's important to understand what TEP is, how it can benefit your business and the differences between tamper-evident and tamper-resistant packaging (TRP). With tamper-evidence, its also important to think of the consumer when selecting your packaging materials for product security. [3]

Types of Tamper-Evident Packaging

Tamper-evident and tamper-resistant packaging are both used extensively in industries like pharmaceuticals, beauty, and food and beverage processing. Some of the most common types of tamper-evident and tamper-resistant packaging include:

• Blister packs: Over-the-counter medications are often sold in foil blister packs, and if the product has been tampered with, the broken foil is obvious.
• Shrink bands: This plastic wrapping is sealed over containers with a lid or cap, like ice cream containers, beverage bottles, or pasta sauce jars.
• Shrink seals: This is common for pasta sauce and other products in jars. The lid releases a “pop” sound (and pops up in the center) when opened; if it doesn’t make this sound, you’ll know the container’s been opened before.
• Heat induction seals: These airtight seals on plastic or glass containers are installed under jar lids and similar devices to prevent contamination. Look for them on peanut butter jars and protein powder tubs.
• Breakable rings: The plastic ring is connected to the lid and breaks to release the cap when you twist the top. These rings commonly appear as bottled soda caps and other beverages.
• Individual wrapping: Granola bars and other snacks are often individually wrapped inside a box. Not only is this convenient for the consumer, it’s also a way to ensure the product’s safety even if the box is somehow damaged.
• Sealed metal cans: Many carbonated and alcoholic beverages are sold in cans that must be opened with a pull tab, making it readily apparent if they’ve been tampered with before the sale.
• Security tape: Great for sending boxes and protecting crates and envelopes, security tape often has words on it (or leaves words on the package) to make it clear if it has been removed and reapplied. [2]

References:

1. https://link.springer.com/referenceworkentry/10.1007%2F978-1-4419-5906-5_230
2. https://www.plasticingenuity.com/blog/tamper-evident-packaging-functionality/
3. https://www.industrialpackaging.com/blog/tamper-evident-packaging-and-how-it-can-benefit-your-business

Cite this article:

Thanusri swetha J (2021) Types of Tamper Resistance, AnaTechmaz, pp. 54