IT security tends to focus on passwords and firewalls. Yet part of the risk is simply physical: someone opening a computer case, laptop or server cabinet. That opens the door to data theft, swapped components or malicious software. Security labels make this kind of tampering immediately visible. Below is how they work, and which label suits which situation.
Physical access to a device allows far more than a remote attack. Three risks stand out.
Tampering
Opening a case takes very little time. A hard drive or memory module can then be swapped, or malware installed through a USB port. The result can be data theft or a complete takeover of the system.
Theft
A stolen laptop or server costs more than a replacement device. If it holds sensitive data, a data breach often follows, with consequences for customers and reputation.
Sabotage
Components can be disabled, or firmware altered. This leads to failures that are hard to trace.
How security labels work
A security label goes where a device or room opens: the seam of a case, the door of a server cabinet or a USB port. When the label is removed, a message such as VOID or OPENED appears.
Instantly visible
During an inspection, an opened device stands out straight away. That also acts as a deterrent. Labels are useful on server cabinets in a shared server room, for example, or on the access door to that room. On laptops, they can cover the seam of the case or the USB ports.
Cannot be reapplied
Once removed, the layers of the label have separated. Sticking it back without visible damage is not possible.
Unique number
Labels with a unique number can be registered. An inspection then shows whether the label on a device is still the original one. A replaced label stands out immediately.
Which label suits which situation?
The ZT-88 is designed for smooth surfaces such as metal server cabinets, laptops and glass. On removal, the word OPENED appears on the label itself, while the surface stays clean.
No adhesive residue on the surface
Withstands temperatures from -10 °C to +40 °C
Suitable for laptops, servers and other electronics
The Label Lock Low Residue suits delicate surfaces such as lacquered wood and powder coated metal. It leaves hardly any adhesive residue and covers a wider temperature range.
Withstands temperatures from -30 °C to +70 °C
Produced in accordance with ISO 9001:2015
For server cabinets, computer access points and doors
