Security Labels – Function, Structure and Applications in Industrial Labeling

A removed tamper-evident seal on a pharmaceutical product. A manipulated barcode on an automotive component. A reprinted nameplate from overseas. In all three cases, a single element determines whether the manipulation is detected or remains unnoticed in the production process: the security label.



Security labels serve a clearly defined purpose – they make interference visible that would otherwise remain hidden. Anyone responsible for identification, quality or compliance within the supply chain should understand how these labels work before selecting a solution. This article explains how security labels are technically structured, which protection mechanisms they use and in which industries they have become indispensable.

What Distinguishes Security Labels from Standard Labels?

A standard label carries information. A security label carries information and provides additional evidence: evidence of whether the labeled product is still in its original condition. This difference results from a combination of material selection, adhesive system and specifically designed break points or security features.

Three characteristics define a genuine security label:

• Tamper evidence: Every attempt to remove the label leaves a visible, irreversible trace.
• Counterfeit protection: The label contains features that cannot be reproduced using standard printing technology.
• Unique identification: Serialization, barcodes or RFID enable the traceability of each individual product.



The construction follows a multi-layer principle consisting of a carrier material, a functional intermediate layer and a specially selected pressure-sensitive adhesive. These three components work together so that separation is only possible with visible damage.

Key Functional Principles
at a Glance

Security labels use different physical and chemical principles. Each principle is suited to different applications – the choice depends on the substrate, environmental conditions and the type of evidence required.

VOID Effect – Visible Evidence of Tampering

With the VOID effect, a message remains visible on the substrate when the label is removed – often the word “VOID” or a customized pattern. The label itself also shows a changed surface after removal. The tampering attempt is therefore documented twice: on the product and on the removed label. VOID labels are primarily used wherever resealing must be prevented, for example on warranty seals, maintenance seals or packaging opening indicators.

Material Destruction – Destructible Label Structure

These labels are made from a fragile carrier material – usually a special film or specially treated paper – that breaks into small fragments when removed. Complete removal without damaging the label is physically impossible. Destructible labels are particularly suitable for nameplates, asset tags and certificates of authenticity.

Security Cuts and Micro-Perforations

Precisely positioned cuts weaken the label structure at defined points. As soon as someone attempts to lift the label, it tears along these lines. Security cuts are often combined with other protection mechanisms such as VOID effects or material destruction to further increase tamper resistance.

Printing-Based Security Features

At the design and printing level, specialized printing techniques make reproduction by third parties more difficult: microtext that can only be read under magnification; guilloches – fine line patterns also used on banknotes; and thermochromic or UV-reactive inks that only become visible when exposed to heat or specific light. These features cannot be reproduced using home or standard printers and can be specifically adapted to the respective application as part of security printing and security labeling solutions.

Holograms and Visual Authentication

Holograms combine visual impact with counterfeit protection. A genuine security hologram requires specialized embossing tools and cannot be reproduced using conventional printing technology. This function is primarily used where end customers or inspection bodies need to verify the authenticity of a product immediately and without additional equipment.

Digital Security Features – RFID, NFC and Serialized Codes

Modern security labels combine physical tamper protection with digital authentication. An integrated RFID or NFC chip enables contactless verification using mobile devices. Serialized 2D codes – such as DataMatrix codes in accordance with EU Directive 2016/161 for prescription medicines – link individual products to a central database. High-performance RFID labels for a wide range of applications enable fast, contactless identification in logistics, retail and industry. At PMG, this combination results in so-called Smart Labels, which combine security printing and Auto-ID technology in a single label.

Applications – Which Industries Use Security Labels?

The function determines where a security label is used. In practice, security labels can be divided into five key application areas.

Pharmaceuticals and Medical Technology

Since the EU Falsified Medicines Directive 2016/161 came into force, tamper-evident closures for prescription medicines have been mandatory. Security labels are used here both to provide evidence of opening and for serialization. Specialized labeling and security solutions for the pharmaceutical industry additionally ensure product identification, traceability and counterfeit protection throughout the entire supply chain. Each package carries a unique identification number that can be verified through the European verification system.

Automotive and Mechanical Engineering

In the automotive sector, security labels fulfill two functions at the same time: they document maintenance and inspection processes – for example as inspection labels under DGUV V3 or as IATF-compliant identification – and protect against the installation of counterfeit components. In addition, RFID labeling solutions for the automotive industry enable seamless identification and production tracking throughout the entire manufacturing process. For safety-critical components such as brakes, airbags or control units, proof of authenticity provided by the label can be legally and economically significant.

Logistics and Supply Chain

In logistics, security labels are used to seal shipments, containers and load carriers. Any tampering with the contents becomes visible during transportation. Combined with RFID labels for logistics and industry, they create an end-to-end track-and-trace solution that significantly increases the difficulty of theft, substitution and parallel trade.

Electronics and High-Value Goods

Manufacturers of high-value electronics use security labels to protect warranty conditions and make unauthorized repairs visible. In addition, self-adhesive barcode and OnMould labels for electronics provide durable identification, traceability and product protection throughout the entire value chain. If a housing is opened without the seal being replaced by an authorized service center, the warranty claim becomes invalid – with documented, legally defensible evidence.

Brand Protection and Anti-Counterfeiting

Manufacturers with high-value brands use security labels to distinguish genuine products from counterfeits. Holograms, UV features and serialized codes enable distributors and end customers to verify authenticity. Specialized anti-counterfeiting solutions using combined security labels additionally protect against reputational and revenue losses caused by product piracy. PMG refers to this application as brand protection and anti-counterfeiting – an area that is becoming increasingly important as supply chains become more globalized and can be specifically addressed through specialized security labels and stickers for tamper and counterfeit protection.

How a Security Label Is Developed for Industrial Applications

The functionality of a security label is not determined by printing alone. It results from the interaction of the carrier material, adhesive system and printing technology – all tailored to the intended substrate and environmental conditions. Three questions form the starting point for every development:

1. What substrate will the label be applied to? Plastic, metal, cardboard and coated surfaces require different adhesive systems.
2. What environmental conditions will the label be exposed to? Temperature, humidity, UV radiation, chemicals and mechanical stress influence the choice of material and adhesive.
3. What type of evidence is required? Should an attempted manipulation remain visibly on the product, should the label disintegrate, or should verification take place digitally?

At PMG, these parameters are used to develop a specification that is tested with samples and approved with an initial sample inspection report in accordance with VDA Volume 2. This report documents all relevant performance characteristics – from adhesion and readability to durability – and provides the purchasing quality department with a basis for audit approval.

Selection Criteria – What to Consider When Choosing Security Labels

When sourcing security labels, four criteria should be systematically evaluated before selecting a solution:

• Strength of tamper evidence: How clearly and irreversibly is an intervention made visible?
• Substrate compatibility: Does the adhesive bond reliably to the actual application surface – even at low temperatures or on rough surfaces?
• Durability: Do the print and security features remain intact throughout the required product lifecycle?
• Manufacturer certifications: Are ISO 9001 and, depending on the industry, IATF 16949, GxP or IATA compliance documented?



There is no one-size-fits-all answer. A VOID label that performs excellently on powder-coated surfaces may fail on rough cardboard. A hologram label that delivers optimal results indoors may fade under direct UV exposure. Selecting the right solution is an engineering decision – not simply a catalog choice.

Conclusion – Function Determines Effectiveness

The function of a security label cannot be assessed by looking at the label itself, but only in the context of its intended application. Which substrate, which environment, which type of evidence – these questions determine the right construction. Anyone who sees a security label merely as a graphic element is overlooking its actual purpose. Those who understand it as a technical component of their supply chain gain a clearly defined protection mechanism against tampering, counterfeiting and liability risks.

PMG develops security labels as a technical partner – from specification and initial sampling through to series approval. The PMG product portfolio for RFID, barcode and specialty labels covers a wide range of industry-specific requirements and applications. ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certified, Made in Germany, with documented initial sample inspection reports.

FAQ About the Function of
Security Labels

What distinguishes a security label from a standard label?

A security label contains specifically engineered properties that make an attempted manipulation visible or digitally verifiable. A standard label simply carries information. This additional functionality results from the choice of material, adhesive system and security features incorporated into the print design.

What does the VOID effect mean on security labels?

With the VOID effect, a visible message or pattern remains on the substrate after the label is removed – usually the letters “VOID.” This permanently documents the attempted manipulation. Resealing the product without leaving further evidence is not possible.

Are security labels legally required?

In the pharmaceutical industry, tamper-evident packaging for prescription medicines is mandatory under EU Directive 2016/161. In other industries, requirements often arise from standards such as IATF 16949 in the automotive sector, DGUV regulations for inspection labels under DGUV V3, or contractual requirements imposed by major customers.

Can security labels be customized?

Yes. Format, color, print design, security features and adhesive can all be tailored to the specific application. At PMG, each specification is developed in coordination with the substrate, environmental conditions and compliance requirements – including an initial sample inspection report.

How can security labels be combined with RFID or barcodes?

Security printing and Auto-ID technology can be combined in a single label. The result is a Smart Label that combines physical tamper protection with digital authentication. PMG develops these combinations of security printing and RFID specifically for pharmaceutical, automotive and brand protection applications.