Object identifier protected from tampering
There is provided an object comprising: a first identifier identifying a unique object identity; a second identifier identifying a first digital signature for the identity; and a mask for masking at least one of the first identifier and the second identifier. The masked identifier is readable only when said mask has been removed.
1. A method of registering a scan event for an object with a computer system, said object comprising:
a first identifier identifying a unique identity of the object;
a second identifier identifying a first digital signature for the unique identity;
a third identifier identifying a second digital signature for the unique identity, the first and second digital signatures being different from each other; and
a removable mask for masking at least part of the second identifier, the second identifier being readable only when said mask has been removed, said method comprising the steps of:
reading the first and third identifiers;
generating authentication data identifying the unique identity of the object and the second digital signature;
sending the authentication data to the computer system; and
authenticating the object by the computer system using the unique identity of the object and the second digital signature,
wherein, following purchase of the object the method comprises the further step of:
removing the mask, removal of said mask providing a visual indication of tampering to a user;
reading the first and second identifiers;
generating registration data identifying the unique identity of the object and the first digital signature;
sending the registration data to the computer system;
registering the scan event for the object by the computer system, registering the scan event registers the object as being purchased.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the registration data further identifies a purchaser identity.