How to Check a Hologram: Overt, Covert and Forensic Features
By Rajneesh Sharma, Owner, Kiran Holographics
A security hologram is a small label with a big job: it lets a buyer, a dealer or an inspector tell a genuine product from a copy. But a hologram only protects a product if somebody checks it. This guide explains the three security levels of a hologram, what each one looks like and who is expected to check it.
Level 1: overt features, checked by eye
Overt features are visible to the naked eye. When you tilt the label, the image changes colour, depth or movement. Typical overt effects are a 2D/3D image, a kinetic effect, a rainbow shift and a clear logo. Anyone can check them in a second, which is why they suit FMCG, cosmetics and consumer brands. The weakness of Level 1 is that a copy can look close enough at first glance, so the design needs to be hard to imitate.
Level 2: covert features, checked with a simple tool
Covert features are hidden in the design. They do not show to the casual eye and need a simple tool to check. Dot matrix and e-beam masters make fine hidden details possible. Level 2 suits pharma, liquor and agrochemicals, where a trained dealer, a field officer or a quality team can check the product.
Level 3: forensic features, verified in a lab
Forensic features are verified in a laboratory. Level 3 suits government documents and certificates. Read more about this level in our guide on e-beam and high-security holograms.
Add tamper evidence and codes
A level of security is not the only tool. A VOID or honeycomb label shows if it has been removed, and a serial number or QR code lets each pack be checked and tracked. You can see our range on the products page.
How to choose the level for your product
- Low-risk consumer goods: a strong overt design.
- Medicines, liquor and agrochemicals: overt plus covert features, with a serial number or QR code.
- Certificates and official documents: overt, covert and forensic features together.
Teach your customers and your team
Whatever level you choose, tell people how to check the label. A short line on the pack, a poster for dealers and a simple card for your sales team do more than any extra feature. A hologram that nobody knows how to read protects very little.
Start with a custom master
Every hologram starts as a master plate. A custom design made in our origination lab in Jaipur is used only for your orders, which makes copying harder.
FAQ
Can one hologram carry all three levels?
Yes. A single design can include overt, covert and forensic features. The mix depends on the product and on who needs to check it.
Do I need special equipment to check a hologram?
Overt features need none. Covert features need a simple tool, and forensic features are verified in a lab.
Talk to us
Kiran Holographics has made security holograms in Jaipur since 2002 and serves 300+ clients in India and buyers in 8+ countries. Tell us about your product and the level of security it needs and we will suggest the right hologram, share samples and send a quote. Contact us or browse our full product range.
About the author: Rajneesh Sharma is the owner of Kiran Holographics, Jaipur, a security hologram manufacturer since 2002. He leads the work from client designs and origination to exports and plant projects.