| abstract |
Counterfeit objects, such as products or documents, can be detected by checking associated ID numbers, which include one or more appended fields of one or more randomly selected digits, in a database containing the correct authorized ID numbers. This use of random selection makes it impossible for counterfeiters to effectively predict or anticipate correct ID numbers. For example, by using bar coded ID numbers with two distinct appended fields of randomly selected numbers, instead of traditional serial numbers, counterfeit products can be conveniently and positively detected either on a wholesaler's or vendor's shelf using a truncated outside ID number found on the product's packaging, or, for example, upon receipt of a customer's product registration card on which the complete inside ID number is found, this complete inside ID number having been concealed from casual perusal during the product's distribution. If authorized ID numbers are repeated by counterfeiters, "hot" lists are formed and used for immediate detection of counterfeit. |