Epson and Vanguard Paper combat replica receipts

When applied to Epson's approved range of EPoS papers, new 'scratch and reveal' ink offers retailers receipts that cannot be copied

Epson approved paper roll manufacturer Vanguard, has joined forces with a security ink specialist in order to offer the retail market receipts that cannot be copied. Featuring two special layers which are impossible to mechanically or electronically replicate, the ink is tamper evident, UV fade resistant and designed to react permanently should it come into contact with any solvents commonly used to alter receipts.

In order to authenticate a receipt, a cashier simply strikes a fingernail over the ink. If a new layer or colour is revealed below, the receipt is genuine. Discreet and simple, the inspection can be carried out unknown to the fraudster, giving the cashier valuable time to alert security.

Receipt fraud is alarmingly straightforward. Having previously stolen an item in-store, the individual returns with a forged receipt for a refund. Believing the receipt to be genuine, the refund is then granted. Many retailers believe that by featuring their logo and returns message on the reverse of receipts that they are safeguarding against such scams. However, this is not the case. Using today's sophisticated technology, an exact replica of any receipt can be reproduced by criminals quickly and easily.

"This is a real breakthrough for the retail industry", said Dominic De Luca, managing director at Vanguard Paper. "Our ink offers both overt and covert protection. The visible top layer acts as a real deterrent to the casual counterfeiter, whilst the bottom layer which is not evident until activated, will help retailers eliminate the more sophisticated criminal element."

Raj Parmar, marketing manager for Epson's retail technology division added: "Shrinkage in retail in a big concern and it can be due to many different factors including employee theft, shoplifting and credit card fraud. However, this new innovative ink which can be applied to any of Epson's thermal and plain papers will help retailers to tackle a growing problem area - receipt fraud."

About Epson

Established for over 30 years as the world's premier printer manufacturer,  Epson has the widest range of PoS printers and touchscreen solutions in the world, each designed to be the best in its class, and built to meet quality and performance criteria that set the industry standard.

Epson's best of breed thermal, inkjet and impact printers for the point of sale have long been the choice of major retailers in the UK and overseas. The company has also been at the forefront of innovations such as colour receipts, single insertion cheque printing, drop-in paper load and mobile printing.

Together with its channel and system partners, Epson offers system solutions for all retail and hospitality environments. The company's range of fully integrated touchscreen terminals includes the powerful Intelligent Register (IR) and modular MR-800.

For more information, visit: www.pos.epson.co.uk