In an era where security threats are continually evolving, organisations must prioritise safeguarding their premises, assets, and people. High-security ID cards have emerged as a vital tool in this effort, offering advanced features that go beyond basic identification to ensure robust security. Selecting the right secure ID cards for your organisation's needs can be challenging. Here, we'll outline key features of high-security ID cards and provide guidance to choose the best option.

Trends in ID Badging
Our 2024 State of ID Badging Survey showed nearly 40% of respondents expected to grow the size of their ID badging program, with nearly 20% attributing a desire for increased card security features as one of the core reasons for the planned growth. The survey results indicate the most popular use for ID badges is access control and identity verification, two uses synonymous with a high-security environment.

Key Features of High-Security ID Cards
High-security ID cards incorporate several advanced features to protect against forgery, unauthorised access, and tampering. Here are some of the most critical features to consider:

1. Graphic Customization

• Color Photos: Clear, high-resolution images of the cardholder are essential for visual identification.
• Unique Graphics: Logos, emblems, and brand colours help authenticate the card. CloudBadging makes designing badges and applying graphics a breeze.
• Personal Information: Data like names and employee numbers printed on the card enhance personalisation and security.

2. Data Encoding & Encryption

• Magnetic Stripes & Barcodes: inexpensive methods to hold cardholder data
• Contact/Contactless Smart Cards (RFID): Encoding technologies store data on a card's contact/contactless smart chip. Smart cards can contain encrypted information such as an ID number, biometrics, additional photos, and more.
• Access Control Cards: Proximity cards allow for a deeper level of encryption and physical security. Readers scan cards and unlock doors to permit authorised users through.

3. Advanced Printing Technology:

• Retransfer Printing: The method of retransfer printing uses a film to apply the design onto the card, creating a tamper-resistant layer that enables fraud exposure.
• Micro-text: Text that is invisible to the naked eye but readable with special equipment.
• Guilloches: Complex, intricate patterns that are difficult to counterfeit.
• UV Elements: Invisible ink that shows up under ultraviolet light, providing a hidden layer of security.

4. Lamination:

• Durability: Laminating ID card printers help extend the lifespan of an ID card by protecting it from wear and tear.
• Holograms: Custom or generic holograms add a three-dimensional, colour-shifting layer to the card, making it highly resistant to counterfeiting.

Conclusion
High-security ID cards are an essential security strategy in modern organisations. Investing in the appropriate solutions ensures peace of mind and a secure environment. By carefully assessing your security needs, evaluating technology options, and considering factors like durability, customisation, and cost, you can deploy the right high-security ID cards that provide robust protection for your organisation.