Popular Ink Tags and Pins: How They Are Used for Retail Security

Shoplifter With Ink On Him…

Retail theft is a growing concern for businesses, costing the global retail industry billions annually. Ink tags and pins have emerged as an essential solution for protecting high-value merchandise. These anti-theft devices combine benefit denial—rendering items unusable if stolen—with visual deterrence, discouraging shoplifters from attempting theft.

In this post, we’ll explore popular ink tags and pins, their unique features, and how they are used to enhance retail security. Whether you’re managing a clothing boutique or a large department store, these solutions can help safeguard your inventory while maintaining a positive shopping experience.

How Ink Tags Work

Ink tags are designed to protect merchandise by leveraging benefit denial. If a thief attempts to forcibly remove the tag, it bursts, releasing permanent, non-toxic ink that ruins the item. This makes the stolen item unsellable and unusable, eliminating the incentive for theft.

How They’re Used:

1. Attachment: Ink tags are securely attached to garments or merchandise using a locking pin or clutch mechanism.

2. Removal at Checkout: Retail staff remove the tags with specialized detachers, ensuring they do not damage the product.

3. Benefit Denial: If tampered with, the ink vials burst, staining the merchandise and preventing resale.

Ink tags can be used alone or in combination with Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) systems, which provide an audible alarm if an item is removed from the store without being deactivated.

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Popular Ink Tags and Pins for Retail Security

Checkpoint Systems (Alpha) Ink Tags

• S3TAGINKBGND: S3 Ink Tag Round 2”, Beige - AM

• Dimensions: 2.00” Diameter x 0.8” Thick

• Lock Type: S3 Lock

• Frequency: AM

• Carton Quantity: 250

• S3TAGINKBGRF: S3 Ink Tag Round 2”, Beige - RF

• Dimensions: 50mm Diameter x 20.3mm Thick

• Lock Type: S3 Lock

• Frequency: RF

• Carton Quantity: 250

• STTAGINKBGND: Standard Lock Ink Tag Round 2”, Beige - AM

• Dimensions: 2.00” Diameter x 0.8” Thick

• Lock Type: Standard Lock

• Frequency: AM

• Carton Quantity: 250

• STTAGINKBGRF: Standard Lock Ink Tag Round 2”, Beige - RF

• Dimensions: 50mm Diameter x 20.3mm Thick

• Lock Type: Standard Lock

• Frequency: RF

• Carton Quantity: 250

• SPTAGINKBGND: Super Lock Ink Tag Round 2”, Beige - AM

• Dimensions: 2.00” Diameter x 0.8” Thick

• Lock Type: Super Lock

• Frequency: AM

• Carton Quantity: 250

• SPTAGINKBGRF: Super Lock Ink Tag Round 2”, Beige - RF

• Dimensions: 50mm Diameter x 20.3mm Thick

• Lock Type: Super Lock

• Frequency: RF

• Carton Quantity: 250

• PINTRSP2INHD: Pin 2” Transparent Round Head, 1/2” Long

• Dimensions: 2.00” Diameter x 0.95” Thick

• Carton Quantity: 250

WG Security Products Ink Tags

• Micro Shell Tag:

• Features: Ball clutch mechanism bursts ink if tampered with.

• Lock Type: Standard/Super Lock

• Frequency: 58 kHz / 8.2 MHz

• Size: Compact

• Nano Shell Tag:

• Features: Smallest ink tag for maximum discretion.

• Lock Type: Standard/Super Lock

• Frequency: 58 kHz / 8.2 MHz

• Size: Compact

• Clear Ink Tag:

• Features: Breakage Indicator Panel ensures ink dispersal in all directions.

• Lock Type: Clutch-compatible

• Frequency: 58 kHz / 8.2 MHz

• Size: Various

• Button Ink Pin:

• Features: Small, visible ink deterrent that can pair with alarming EAS tags.

• Lock Type: Clutch-compatible

• Size: Compact

• Oval Ink Tag:

• Features: Combines ink deterrence with EAS compatibility.

• Lock Type: Clutch-compatible

• Size: Compact

Sensormatic Ink Tags

• SuperTag Ink:

• Features: Lightweight design with patented clamp for superior defeat resistance.

• Lock Type: SuperTag-compatible

• Size: Compact

• Sensor-Ink Mini Tag:

• Features: Reusable, visible ink vial with stainless-steel tack.

• Lock Type: Non-EAS

• Size: Compact

• Magnetic Saucer Ink Tag:

• Features: Slim profile with visible ink vials for maximum deterrence.

• Lock Type: Magnetic Detacher

• Frequency: AM / RF

• Size: Flat profile

Key Features Across Ink Tags and Pins

1. Tamper Resistance: All ink tags feature robust locking mechanisms to prevent unauthorized removal.

2. Customizable Lock Strengths: Tags like Checkpoint’s S3 and Super Lock offer varying levels of resistance.

3. Compact Designs: Products like the Nano Shell Tag and Sensor-Ink Mini Tag minimize visual interference with merchandise displays.

4. Reusable Options: Many ink tags, such as those from WG Security, are designed for multiple use cycles.

5. Compatibility with EAS Systems: Tags like the Clear Ink Tag and Magnetic Saucer Ink Tag seamlessly integrate with RF and AM frequencies for enhanced protection.

How to Choose the Right Ink Tags for Your Store

• High-Value Merchandise: Consider options like Sensormatic’s SuperTag Ink or WG’s Micro Shell Tag for items that require maximum security.

• Compact Displays: Use smaller tags like the Nano Shell Tag or Sensor-Ink Mini Tag to preserve the aesthetic appeal of your displays.

• EAS Integration: Pair ink tags with EAS technology, such as the Magnetic Saucer Ink Tag, for dual-layered protection.

Conclusion

Ink tags and pins are an essential part of modern retail security strategies. By combining visual deterrence and benefit denial, these devices reduce shrinkage and protect merchandise without compromising the customer shopping experience. With options from Checkpoint Systems, WG Security Products, and Sensormatic, retailers can customize their approach to loss prevention and stay one step ahead of theft.

Explore these solutions today to safeguard your business and ensure a profitable tomorrow.

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