Security Seals Safety

The primary function of indicator seals is to serve a monitoring role. They are designed to signal any tampering attempts by breaking or displaying visible signs of manipulation.

This second factor is often overlooked when selecting these components, yet it has the greatest impact on ensuring full control over the secured goods.

The primary factor influencing the security level of the product and providing clear information on whether it has been tampered with is the locking chamber.

Models with a metal locking mechanism have become the standard, as they securely hold the seal's strap and prevent any reversal or tampering.

Access to the locking mechanism after the seal has been properly secured determines its effectiveness and reliability.

There are many models on the market that lack sufficient locking mechanism security and proper build quality.

The critical points of the indicator-string versions are primarily:

• Inadequate security of metal chamber lock.
• Gaps between the moustache and the sealing hole.

An inadequate level of lock security is one that, once the item is closed, allows access to the metal lock and manipulation of the seal in such a way that it can be reopened without leaving visible marks on it, thus making it impossible to visually determine whether it has been tampered with or not.

Possible attempts at manipulation:

• Bending of the metal lock plates due to access to the lock from the outside, e.g. open-cell security.
• In the case of two-piece welded or indented chambers, it is possible using high temperatures, e.g. hot water, to heat up these components and access the lock and reopen the seal without visible traces. The component can be resealed or glued.

The slots between the moustache and the hole allow the plates holding the moustache to be bent and reopened.

Possible attempts at manipulation:

• The most common instances of such attempts involve inserting a thin sheet wrapped around the moustache of the component and momentarily bending the sheets to allow the security device to open.

The XSEAL models (Multiseal 350mm type) offered by Safexpert. have been manufactured to eliminate the above-mentioned attempts at unwanted opening. The modern design eliminates such attempts 100% thanks to:

• Metal locking compartment made of a single plastic casting.
• Fitting the gaps between the moustache and the opening.

The above is also confirmed:

• Tests carried out at the Centre of Forensic Expertise, on the possibility of opening the seal without leaving visible traces.
• Conducted competitions to open security of this type among security professionals in Poland.