Researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have developed a new cryptographic identification mark that is smaller and cheaper than traditional radio frequency marks (RFID) commonly used to authenticate products. This miniature label operates on teragerz waves, which are more efficient than radio waves in terms of size and distribution.
However, a vulnerability was discovered in the teragerz tag, similar to RFID, where an attacker could swap the mark from a genuine product to a fake one without detection by the authentication system. To address this issue, researchers have created an identification mark using terartz waves that has protection against unauthorized access while maintaining the benefits of being small, inexpensive, and secure.
The unique feature of this new technology involves microscopic metal particles mixed with glue, creating a distinctive pattern that reflects teragerz waves for authentication. If the label is removed and placed on another product, the pattern is destroyed, immediately exposing the fake.
The study detailing this innovation was presented at the IEEE Solid State Circuits Conference, led by Professor Runan Khan from the MIT Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, in collaboration with a team of students. The size of the teragerz mark is only 4 square millimeters, making it suitable for various objects, including small items like medical devices.
To compare the unique glue patterns, researchers utilized artificial intelligence, developing a machine learning model that can analyze patterns with over 99% accuracy. This allows for reliable detection of tampering or movement of the mark, crucial in preventing counterfeits.
Although there are limitations, such as the requirement for a sensor within 4 centimeters of the mark and a viewing angle of less than 10 degrees to maintain signal integrity, researchers believe in the potential of teragerz waves for improving product authentication and safety, as well as other applications in the future.