Researchers at Fraunhofer IAP want to use counterfeit-proof QR codes to make the packaging of high-quality products, such as medicines, counterfeit-proof. In the SmartID project, a system was developed that enables easy verification with a smartphone - even offline. The trick is that the QR code is "married" to the packaging on which it is printed. It itself contains clear information about the texture of the surface. With the corresponding scanner on the smartphone, it can be clearly determined whether the QR code and the surface match. To use the solution, all that is needed is to install a camera in front of the code printer during the packaging process and process its data accordingly.

The SmartID labeling system was designed so that it not only serves to protect the product, but can also contain further information about the product. At EMPACK 2024 in Hamburg, project coordinator Dr. Tobias Jochum also saw potential for use in the timber trade - for example in relation to the EUDR.