This Global Graphics white paper, in partnership with Digimarc, explains how digital watermarking enhances print workflows to combat counterfeiting and improve supply chain transparency. Unlike visible barcodes, digital watermarks embed covert data across packaging, preserving brand aesthetics while enabling track-and-trace, authentication, and consumer engagement via smartphones. Two methods are outlined: steganography, hiding data in image pixels, and artwork masking layers, overlaying fine graphic patterns. Watermarks can be applied during design, prepress, or late-binding at the Digital Front End, with late-binding offering the most efficiency for variable data printing. This approach strengthens security, accelerates workflows, and supports regulatory compliance.

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