New Datacard Advanced Optically Variable Laminates and Topcoats Ensure Authenticity of Photo ID Cards.

Business Editors & Technology Writers

MINNEAPOLIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 16, 2001

Advanced OVD (Optically Variable Device) technology

provides defence against sophisticated alteration

and counterfeiting methods

Datacard Group today announced it has accelerated final development and market introduction of a portfolio of advanced security OVD offerings that make photo ID cards virtually impossible to counterfeit and at the same time provide tamper-evidence that reveals any attempts at alteration or forgery. The new Datacard(R) DuraGard(R) registered OVD laminates feature the advanced security of high-resolution, computer-generated holographic imagery that cannot be copied or reproduced with conventional scanning and printing systems. Company officials said the new, maximum-security portfolio of OVD solutions will be available for sale by the end of the week.

"Government agencies, corporations and other security-minded organizations need to know the ID cards they issue are highly secure," said Tate Preston, marketing vice president for Datacard's Government Solutions group. "This new portfolio of overt and covert advanced security OVD's represents a significant advance over today's commercially available laminates."

With its OVD technology, Datacard will be able to incorporate highly secure visual and covert effects -- such as registered transparent holographic images, kinetic movement, microprint and an advanced suite of covert features -- into the DuraGard registered OVD laminates it provides. In addition, Datacard provides the light sources and other proprietary inspection devices that can be used to automatically verify card authenticity.

"When the new DuraGard registered holographic laminates are combined with our advanced OVD security features, it clearly strengthens the protection of cards against forgery and alteration or counterfeiting," Preston said. "The visual and covert security we can add to an ID card provides a critical component of a security program. But in order for ID cards and identity systems to be truly secure, they must be part of a comprehensive plan that includes effective policies and procedures, integrated security systems and cardholders who understand their role in maintaining a secure environment."

Preston said he expects Datacard's new DuraGard registered OVD laminates will be implemented immediately in many government and corporate identity programs supported by Datacard.

"We've helped organizations issue more than 600 million photo cards in more than 60 countries worldwide, ranging from high security passports to ID cards for clubs and associations. In addition to building a vast portfolio of identity solutions, we've also amassed a tremendous amount of knowledge surrounding security and identity documents," Preston said. "This expertise is extremely valuable for our clients as we help them develop and implement effective identity programs."

Datacard Group provides corporations, government agencies, schools and other enterprises with a broad portfolio of digital identity solutions. Current engagements include national ID programs in more than 15 countries, driver's license programs in more than 20 countries and employee ID implementations for many of the world's largest corporations. In addition to offering the world's best-selling brand of photo ID systems, Datacard offers solutions integrating smart cards and biometrics, to create systems for both visual and virtual identification. The company also provides financial institutions and other card issuers with the software, systems and services they need for successful card programs. Offerings include smart card operating systems, multi-application smart card management systems and the world's best-selling family of card personalization systems. DataCard Corporation, doing business as Datacard Group, is privately held and based in Minnetonka, Minn. Datacard Group serves customers in more than 200 countries. (www.datacard.com)