The article discusses the vulnerabilities of a rare anti-theft sensor called “ColorTag,” which is used exclusively in a network of Swedish stores.
Retail technology is constantly evolving, including methods of protecting goods from theft. Sometimes we may have known about something for a long time, but it’s impossible to understand how it works from a distance, and after many years, such a thing has finally come into my hands thanks to friends in Sweden. One such unusual anti-theft technology used in Swedish SportShopen stores is the “ColorTag” security tag, with an original pneumatic piston system that secures the sensor to the merchandise.
In this article, we will look at my original method of opening these sensors without using specialized equipment. The original working method of the mechanism involves creating a sudden increase in pressure in the chamber where the fixing round element-piston is located. I assume it’s some kind of pump or just a large-volume piston, and if I manage to find the original patent, I will add more description of this technology, which is now not really necessary.
The “Color Tag” is a unique device with four fragile capsules and two needles that securely attach to the protected merchandise. Its key element is a piston, which, with the help of a pneumatic mechanism, enters a round hole, thereby locking the sensor on the merchandise. The sensor is usually compatible specifically with AM systems, as the SportShopen store network only uses AM systems.
Usually, to remove the ColorTag, store staff use a special device provided by the manufacturer. However, in situations where the original tool is unavailable, for example, after the merchandise has left the store or when you are alone with it in the fitting room, alternative methods are required. The task becomes more complicated when there is no way to reproduce high air pressure without a compressor or the original detaching device.
After a thorough study of the ColorTag’s construction, I found a solution that allows you to do without specialized tools. The method involves manually pressing the piston through a specially provided access window on the sensor itself and a hole in the right place on the sensor, which you can easily and simply make yourself. For this, you will need a simple tool – a screwdriver with specific dimensions and blade shape.
The ideal tool:
– the perfect screwdriver for this task should have a flat blade approximately 1.5 millimeters wide with a blunt end.
This ensures the ability to push the piston without the risk of puncturing or breaking it. It is important to note that the material of the plastic piston is dense enough to withstand light pressure without puncturing.
The process of removing the tag is simple and can be performed quickly with a little practice.
Step-by-step guide to removing the “ColorTag”:
1. Take the sensor and carefully inspect it to find the access window to the puncture site.
2. Place the screwdriver blade at the indicated point for pressing.
3. Apply confident, twisting-drilling but controlled effort to pierce the plastic and push the piston through the window, freeing the tag.
It is recommended to practice this technique in a safe environment before using it, for example, in a calm fitting room. The goal is to become a professional and confidently master the removal process.
Conclusion:
The “Color Tag” security tag is a smart security measure for retailers, but knowing the right approach and having the appropriate tools, its removal should not be a difficult task. This simple but effective “do it yourself” method ensures that not only store employees can remove this tag without critical damage to the merchandise or the sensor itself.
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