ISO Standards for Secure Document Authentication

ISO 22383:2020 - Recommendations for selecting and ISO Materials for tactile solution– is a technical version of the standard initially published in 2012 as ISO 12931. It specifies performance requirements and a methodology for evaluating authentication systems used to prove the accuracy and integrity of documentation throughout its life cycle. The standard assists organizations in determining the kind of authenticated components required to combat counterfeiting-related risks and the factors that influenced such elements.

Example for ISO 12931

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Nevertheless, the standard does not provide analytic methods for evaluating the efficiency and cost of authentication systems. It also doesn't mention specific trademarks or sets of authentication components (such as holograms).

Let’s return to the ISO 22383 for a moment and look more closely at its suggestions, some of which are as follows:

·       An authentication feature is more resilient when composed of a layered solution that combines separate authentication aspects. The standard refers to utilizing a mix of overt, covert, and forensic-level factors that work together to establish proof in this regard.

·       The standard expressly states that real-time tracking systems cannot be utilized as authentication solutions on their own.

·       A product identification solution must include a creation phase followed by an inspection procedure.

·       'The creation process entails defining, creating, and producing the authenticate parts, as well as integrating them with the material item or its packaging.' The inspecting process involves trained individuals utilizing human senses, tools, or references to check the authenticating elements along the distribution chain.

The guideline suggests that the degree of performance of an authentication system be evaluated as a whole, encompassing all components and interfaces involved.

Vendors of authentication components and tools should be registered and properly evaluated, particularly regarding the security measures they have in place (see also reference to the ISO 14298:2013 compliance standard for security printers below).

·       Vendors should safeguard the composition and manufacturing of authentication elements against information exchange during the design, production, and distribution processes.

·       And to replicate correctly, authentication should require an unusual amount of work. For example, if an authentication element is duplicated, it should include copy-evident characteristics visible during the process.’ Concerning tampering, 'a physical or intangible kind of dependency between the authenticate element, and the thing it safeguards should be established.'

·       An effort is made to eliminate an authentication factor from material good; it exhibits tangible interdependence if it is destroyed or exhibits some visible or detectable change. An intangible dependency exists when the authentication element has a logical relationship to the object or a reference that cannot be deleted or reproduced.'

Whereas ISO 22383 focuses on product security, a new standard is designed for physical documents. It is known as ISO/AWI 22388 – Guidelines for Physical Document Security 2. (Where AWI stands for Approved new Work Item).

Security printers must meet a compliance requirement.

In addition, to meet the standards mentioned above, the ID and secure document industry should be aware of ISO 14298:2013 - Management of security printing processes. The Graphical design task force issues this standard contrasted to the Security and resilience committee, which publishes the 22300 standards.

To summarize, rather than being a guideline system that sets advice and suggestions, ISO Tactile entrance solutions is far more prescriptive and is backed up by audits and certifying procedures.

14298 is aimed squarely at security printers. It establishes a set of minimum guidelines for the management of security printing and hologram production processes. Intergraf is the accrediting body behind 14298.

All ISO standards may be purchased and downloaded from the ISO online store, found at www.iso.org/store.html. They are also accessible from any ISO-accredited national standards agency.