In an increasingly interconnected and globalized world, the challenges associated with ensuring the security and authenticity of products during transportation and distribution have become more pronounced. Counterfeiting and product diversion pose significant risks to businesses, consumers, and economies at large. One of the effective tools available to mitigate these risks is the ISO 17712 certification.
ISO 17712 is an international standard that sets forth the requirements for high-security seals used on containers to deter theft, tampering, and unauthorized access. The certification process involves rigorous testing and validation of these seals to ensure they meet the stringent criteria outlined in the standard. The primary objective of ISO 17712 is to enhance supply chain security by minimizing the vulnerabilities that can be exploited by counterfeiters and diverters.
Counterfeiting, the act of producing fake replicas of genuine products, and product diversion, which involves redirecting goods meant for a legitimate market to unauthorized channels, have severe consequences for businesses and consumers alike. These activities not only erode brand reputation and customer trust but also lead to financial losses, safety risks, and legal implications. ISO 17712 certification addresses these issues through several mechanisms:
Tamper-evident Seals:
ISO 17712-certified seals are designed to be tamper-evident, meaning any attempt to breach the seal will leave visible evidence of tampering. This discourages unauthorized access and tampering, making it difficult for counterfeiters or diverters to compromise the integrity of the sealed container without detection.
Authentication:
The standard mandates unique identification markings on each seal, which enables easy verification of authenticity. This system allows supply chain stakeholders to quickly determine if a seal is genuine or counterfeit. This level of traceability minimizes the chances of using unauthorized seals, thereby reducing the risk of counterfeit products entering the market.
Strength and Durability:
ISO 17712-certified seals are subjected to rigorous testing to ensure they can withstand a range of environmental and physical stresses. This enhances their resistance to tampering and unauthorized access. Counterfeit seals are less likely to meet these standards, making them easier to identify and preventing the use of substandard seals that can be exploited by diverters.
Global Standardization:
ISO 17712 provides a consistent and globally recognized framework for high-security seals. This standardization simplifies communication between various stakeholders in the supply chain, making it more challenging for counterfeiters and diverters to exploit inconsistencies or lack of coordination.
Supply Chain Visibility:
ISO 17712-certified seals contribute to improved supply chain visibility. By ensuring that containers remain sealed and intact throughout their journey, the risk of products being diverted or tampered with is minimized. This visibility not only helps prevent unauthorized activities but also allows businesses to respond swiftly to any irregularities.
Legal Deterrence:
The use of ISO 17712-certified seals can serve as a deterrent against counterfeiting and diversion due to the legal consequences associated with tampering with or counterfeiting certified seals. Legal actions against those who attempt to breach these seals send a strong message that such activities will not be tolerated.
Conclusion:
ISO 17712 certification plays a vital role in minimizing the risks of counterfeiting and product diversion by providing a comprehensive framework for securing goods in transit. Its emphasis on tamper-evident features, authentication, strength, and global standardization contributes to a more secure and reliable supply chain. By deterring unauthorized access and enhancing traceability, ISO 17712 certification helps businesses protect their brand integrity, ensure consumer safety, and maintain the credibility of global trade networks.
