Tamper evident packaging for transaction card

Abstract

A tamper evident card packaging includes a transaction card, a first portion, a second portion coupled to the first portion at least in part by a seal, and a visually changing feature applied to one or more of the transaction card, the first portion, or the second portion. The first portion and the second portion together or separately define a card receptacle to retain the transaction card and the seal inhibits removal of the transaction card from the card receptacle, and the visually changing feature irreversibly changes appearance when subjected to heat at or above a tamper temperature.

Description

Docket No. P322136.WO.01TAMPER EVIDENT PACKAGING FOR TRANSACTION CARDCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority pursuant to 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 729,720, filed December 9, 2024, entitled “Tamper Evident Packaging for Transaction Card,” which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.FIELD

[0002] The described embodiments relate generally to tamper evident features for a transaction card or packaging.BACKGROUND

[0003] Point of sale activated transaction cards, such as gift cards, debit cards, and credit cards are widely used. Point of sale activated transaction cards may be pre-printed and displayed for sale, such as a retail store. The cards may have a predetermined amount or otherwise assigned a monetary value or balance when the cards are activated by the consumer. Typically, cards may be stored or displayed in an inactivated or voided state to prevent theft, e.g., without a balance or without being activated. However, monetary balances linked to cards may still be stolen.

[0004] Packaging used to secure the cards may commonly be heat sealed, radio frequency (RF) welded, or include an adhesive to secure the card. Often, the packaging obscures the account information associated with the transaction card. However, packaging may be unsealed and opened by the application of heat to weaken or release the seal to gain access to the transaction cards inside a package.

[0005] As a result, a thief may remove a card from its packaging and obtain identifying card data such as an account number or similar information. For example, after access to the card, the thief may return the card to its packaging and to a sale location for a customer to purchase and activate the card. When the card is activated through purchase, the compromised account data may be used to access value associated with the card. Current technologies for packaging point of sale transaction cards make such theft or tampering difficult to identify.-1-4913-1045-3628Y2Docket No. P322136.WO.01SUMMARY

[0006] A tamper evident card packaging or transaction card is disclosed.

[0007] A tamper evident card packaging includes a transaction card, a first portion, a second portion coupled to the first portion at least in part by a seal, and a visually changing feature applied to one or more of the transaction card, the first portion, or the second portion. The first portion and the second portion together or separately define a card receptacle to retain the transaction card and the seal inhibits removal of the transaction card from the card receptacle, and the visually changing feature irreversibly changes appearance when subjected to heat at or above a tamper temperature.

[0008] In some examples, the seal is defined by one or more of a heat seal, radio frequency weld, or adhesive.

[0009] In some examples, the tamper temperature is a temperature threshold at or below a temperature at which the seal degrades or releases.

[0010] In some examples, the packaging further includes an insert positioned within the card receptacle and in contact with the transaction card, and the insert includes one or more of the visually changing feature or confidential information.

[0011] In some examples, the visually changing feature has an initial configuration including a first visible color, and after being subjected to the heat at or above the tamper temperature, the visually changing feature has a second configuration including a second color different from the first color.

[0012] In some examples, the packaging further includes aesthetic features including one or more of coloring, text, or images, the initial configuration of the visually changing feature visually corresponds with the aesthetic features such that the visually changing feature is visually inconspicuous, and the second configuration of the visually changing feature visually contrasts with the aesthetic features.

[0013] In some examples, the seal extends along at least a portion of a perimeter of the card receptacle, and the seal prevents access to the card receptacle at temperatures below the tamper temperature without damaging at least one of the seal, the first portion, or the second portion.

[0014] In some examples, the visually changing feature is one or more of a label, layer, or activatable ink positioned at an exterior of at least one of the first portion, the second portion, or the transaction card.-2-4913-1045-3628Y2Docket No. P322136.WO.01

[0015] Another example of a tamper evidencing packaging includes a first portion, a second portion connected to the first portion to define a receptacle to securely retain a product, a seal defining at least in part a connection between the first portion and the second portion to define the receptacle, and a tamper evident feature applied to at least one of the first portion or the second portion. In a first configuration the tamper evident feature forms a first visible appearance that is visually inconspicuous. The tamper evident feature irreversibly changes to a second configuration forming a second visible appearance different from the first visible appearance when exposed to a range of temperatures inclusive of a tamper temperature at which the seal is degradable such that the receptacle becomes accessible.

[0016] In some examples, the tamper evident feature is one or more of a label, layer, or activatable ink.

[0017] In some examples, the tamper evident feature is positioned on an exterior of the tamper evidencing card packaging.

[0018] In some examples, the tamper evident feature is over printed by one or more visual features including one or more of text, images, or coloring, the first visible appearance and the one or more visual features to at least partially conceal the tamper evident feature in the first configuration.

[0019] In some examples, in the second configuration, the second visible appearance contrasts with the one or more visual features.

[0020] In some examples, in the second configuration, the second visible appearance at least partially conceals the visual features.

[0021] In some examples, the tamper evident feature is overprinted by confidential information necessary to one of activate, purchase, or use a transaction card associated with the tamper evidencing packaging, in the second configuration, the second visible appearance inhibits one or more of reading or scanning the confidential information.

[0022] A method for constructing a tamper evident card packaging includes coupling a first packaging portion and a second packaging portion by a seal to securely retain a transaction card in a card receptacle, and applying a tamper evidencing feature to one or more of the first packaging portion, the second packaging portion, or the transaction card. The tamper evidencing feature changes from a first configuration to a second configuration visibly distinct from the first-3-4913-1045-3628Y2Docket No. P322136.WO.01 configuration when exposed to heat at a threshold temperature inclusive of a temperature at which the seal degrades.

[0023] In some examples, the method further includes applying one or more aesthetic features to the one or more of the first packaging portion or the second packaging portion. The first configuration of the heat activated feature corresponds to the aesthetic features and the second configuration contrasts with the aesthetic features.

[0024] In some examples, the tamper evidencing feature is adhered to an exterior of the first packaging portion or the second packaging portion after coupling the first portion and the second portion.

[0025] In some examples, the tamper evidencing feature is applied to the first packaging portion, the second packaging portion, or the transaction card prior to coupling the first packaging portion and the second packaging portion.

[0026] In some examples, the method further includes printing one or more aesthetic features or confidential information over the tamper evidencing feature.

[0027] The tamper evident card packaging includes a transaction card, a first portion, a second portion coupled to the first portion by a seal, and a visually changing ink applied to one or more of the transaction card, the first portion, or the second portion. The first portion and the second portion together or separately define a card receptacle to retain the transaction card and the seal inhibits removal of the transaction card from the card receptacle, and the visually changing ink permanently changes appearance when subjected to heat at or above a tamper temperature.

[0028] In some examples, the seal is defined by one or more of a heat seal, RF weld, or adhesive.

[0029] In some examples, the tamper temperature is a temperature threshold at which the seal degrades or releases.

[0030] In some examples, the tamper evident packaging further includes an insert positioned within the card receptacle and in contact with the transaction card, and the insert includes one or more of the visually changing ink or confidential information.

[0031] In some examples, the visually changing ink has an initial configuration including a first color, and after being subjected to the heat at or above the tamper temperature, the visually changing ink has a second configuration including a second color different from the first color.-4-4913-1045-3628Y2Docket No. P322136.WO.01

[0032] In some examples, the one or more of the transaction card, the first portion, or the second portion including the visually changing ink additionally includes aesthetic features, the initial configuration corresponds with the aesthetic features, and the second configuration contrasts with the aesthetic features.

[0033] In some examples, the seal extends along at least a portion of a perimeter of the card receptacle, and the seal prevents access to the card receptacle at temperatures below the tamper temperature.

[0034] A method for constructing a tamper evident card packaging is disclosed herein. The method includes applying a heat activated ink to one or more of a first packaging portion or a second packaging portion, locating a transaction card at a card receptacle defined by the first portion or the second portion, and coupling the first portion and the second portion by a seal to securely retain the transaction card at the card receptacle to define the tamper evident card packaging. The heat activated ink changes from a first configuration to a second configuration when heat is applied above a threshold temperature.

[0035] In some examples of the method, the seal is a defined by one or more of an adhesive, heat seal, or RF welding.

[0036] In some examples, the method includes applying one or more aesthetic features to the one or more of the first packaging portion or the second packaging portion, and wherein the first configuration of the heat activated ink corresponds to the aesthetic features and the second configuration contrasts with the aesthetic features.

[0037] In some examples, the method includes placing an insert between the first portion and the second portion, and the insert includes the heat activated ink.

[0038] In addition to the exemplary aspects and embodiments described above, further aspects and embodiments will become apparent by reference to the drawings and by study of the following description.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which:

[0040] Fig. 1 depicts a perspective view of example packaging for a transaction card;-5-4913-1045-3628Y2Docket No. P322136.WO.01

[0041] Fig. 2 depicts an exploded view of example packaging and transaction card;

[0042] Fig. 3A depicts front view of example packaging;

[0043] Fig. 3B depicts a rear view of example packaging of Fig. 3A;

[0044] Fig. 4A depicts an example tamper evidencing feature;

[0045] Fig. 4B depicts a cross sectional view of the tamper evidencing feature of Fig. 4A;

[0046] Fig. 5A depicts a front view of example packaging having a first configuration;

[0047] Fig. 5B depicts the example packaging of Fig. 4A having a second configuration;

[0048] Fig. 6A depicts another example of packaging having a second configuration;

[0049] Fig. 6B depicts another example of packaging having a second configuration;

[0050] Fig. 6C depicts another example of packaging having a second configuration;

[0051] Fig. 6D depicts another example of packaging having a second configuration;

[0052] Fig. 6E depicts another example of packaging having a second configuration;

[0053] Fig. 6F depicts another example of packaging having a second configuration;

[0054] Fig. 6G depicts another example of packaging having a second configuration;

[0055] Fig. 7A shows an example method of forming tamper evident packaging; and

[0056] Fig. 7B shows an example method of forming tamper evident packaging.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0057] The description that follows includes example systems, methods, and apparatuses that embody various elements of a tamper evident transaction card packaging or a tamper evident transaction card. However, it should be understood that the described disclosure may be practiced in a variety of forms in addition to those described herein.

[0058] A tamper evident card package is disclosed that prevents or inhibits undetectable access to cards, such as those positioned or enclosed within a package. For example, the tamper evident card package includes one or more features that irreparably, or visibly, change or damage to access the card within the packaging. For example, exterior surfaces of the card packaging, portions within the card packaging, the transaction card itself, or the like may include visually changing features responsive to common tampering methods, such as heat attacks on seals. In some examples, one or both of the packaging and card include tamper evident features. The visible or irreparable change in the card or packaging indicates possible tampering to a would-be customer or retail clerk and helps to prevent the purchase or activation of a compromised card.-6-4913-1045-3628Y2Docket No. P322136.WO.01For example, after attempting to access the interior of the packaging or card (e.g. tampering) and causing change to the tamper evidencing feature, a would-be thief would be unable to return the tamper evident card or packaging to look as if the card had not been tampered with (e.g., an original state). In this manner, the tamper evident card package helps to prevent the theft of point of sale (POS) transaction items, such as cards, since any tampering or theft will be readily identifiable.

[0059] A tamper evident packaging may include two portions joined together, such as at a seal. For example, the two portions can be connected by a seal along a portion or a perimeter of the package. The transaction card is stored within or otherwise retained by the packaging. The seal and packaging may prevent most would-be thieves from tampering with the transaction card or accessing confidential readable information (e.g., activation information, account information, etc.) associated with the card. For example, accessing the transaction card at the card receptacle by force may result in permanently and visibly damaging the seal, first portion, or second portion.

[0060] Thieves have developed methods to degrade or deactivate commonly used seals of existing packaging, such as heat seals or adhesives, by applying heat to weaken, reverse, or degrade the seal, or the packaging generally, to separate packaging portions and access the transaction card. In some examples, thieves additionally or alternatively use a chemical to degrade or remove the seal. The thieves retrieve information from the card or packaging to utilize any later funds or credits associated with the card. After retrieving the confidential information, thieves reseal the packaging and return tampered transaction cards to retail locations with the hopes that an unexpecting consumer purchases and activates the card and adds credit, currency, or the like, which the thieves then access or transfer from the activated card.

[0061] The tamper evident card or packaging described herein solves these issues with the addition of a visually changing feature including a color changing material, ink, dye, or the like (e.g., security feature) applied to one or more of the packaging portions, inserted materials, or the transaction card. The tamper evidencing feature can be a label or layer applied to at least a portion of the card or packaging. When heat above a threshold temperature is applied to the card or packaging, e.g., including at least a temperature at or above a temperature that could degrade or release the seal, the tamper evidencing feature changes from a first visible configuration to a second visible configuration. The change to the second configuration may be irreversible. In-7-4913-1045-3628Y2Docket No. P322136.WO.01 some examples, the appearance changing feature may additionally or alternatively change in appearance in response to exposure to a chemical that may degrade the seal or packaging. The change in appearance or configuration visibly indicates the packaging has been exposed to a heat source that could have compromised the seal and thus been subject to tampering. In this manner, tampering may be readily visible, and the sale or activation of compromised cards may be prevented.

[0062] The examples described herein are generally directed to tamper evident packaging and transaction cards. It should be noted that while various features and components are discussed with respect to tamper evident features of packaging and transaction cards, these features and components can be used separately and / or in various combinations with each other. Further it is appreciated the teachings described herein may not be limited to packaging for transaction cards or transaction cards alone and could be applied to packaging of various products generally. As such the discussion of any particular implementation is meant as illustrative only.

[0063] Turning to the figures, Figs. 1-3B and 5A-5B illustrate an example tamper evident card package 100 for a transaction card 118. The package 100 includes a first portion 102 securely connected or attached to a second portion 104 by a seal 114 to retain the card 118. The packaging 100 includes a tamper evident feature 170, see Figs. 2-5B, that visibly indicates exposure of the packaging 100 to conditions that could degrade the seal 114 or be otherwise indicative of tampering to the packaging 100.

[0064] The first portion 102 may be a front or cover of the package 100. The first portion 102 may have a variety of shapes or profiles. The first portion 102 includes a base surface 122 having a front side 124 and a rear side 124. The first portion 102 includes a first periphery 128 defined along or adjacent a perimeter of the first portion 102. In one example, the first portion 102 may be generally rectangular in shape and include rounded comers. The shapes or profiles may correspond to a branding or style of an entity associated with the transaction cards 118. In some implementations, the first portion 102 may be, for example, square, rectangular with or without rounded comers, circular, oval, or an irregular shape.

[0065] The second portion 104 may be a rear or second cover of the package 100. The second portion 104 includes second base surface 132 having a front side 134 and a rear side 134. The second portion 104 includes a second periphery 138 defined along or adjacent a perimeter of the second portion 104.-8-4913-1045-3628Y2Docket No. P322136.WO.01

[0066] With reference to Fig. 2, the first portion 102 or the second portion 104 may be generally flat or include flat regions. For example, the first 102 or second portion 104 may be flat at or adjacent the peripheries 128, 138. The second portion 104 may be shaped similarly as the first front portion 102 or otherwise correspond to the shape of the front portion 102. In some examples, the second portion 104 may be larger or smaller (e.g., longer, wider, or thicker) than the first portion 104. The first periphery 128 or the second periphery 138 may align with the other for connecting the portions 102, 104. For example, Figs. 3A and 3B show the first periphery 128 aligned and in contact with the second periphery 138. In other examples, the periphery 128, 138 of one the first portion 102 or the second portion 104 may be defined to be spaced to the interior of the periphery 128, 138 of the other of the first portion 102 or the second portion 104. Accordingly, the first portion 102 or the second portion 104 may be any shape or combinations of shapes.

[0067] Either or both of the first portion 102 and the second portion 104 may each, or together, define a card receptacle or cavity 106. The card cavity 106 may be an internal volume of the package 100, features to retain or hold a transaction card 118, or the like. For example, the card cavity 106 may be a recess or pocket defined by one or both to the first portion 102 or second portion 104. The card cavity 106 may extend outward, either rearward or forward, relative to the base surfaces 122, 132. In one example, the first portion 102 defines the card cavity 106. For example, the first portion 102 may be formed with a depression relative to the rear side 126 or an outward extending feature relative to the front 124 to define the cavity 106. In some examples, both the first portion 102 and the second portion 104 define corresponding recesses that align to define the cavity 106. In other examples, the second portion 104 defines the card cavity 106.

[0068] The first portion 102 or the second portion 104 may be cut to define the cavity 106, or include two or more separately connected features defining the cavity 106. In some examples, the cavity 106 may be defined by or between unconnected portions of the first portion 102 and the second portion 104 and the portions 102, 104 may be sufficiently flexible to flex or bend around a card 118, or other items, placed in the cavity 106.

[0069] The cavity 106 may be shaped similar to a shape of the transaction card 118. For example, the cavity 106 may commonly be rectangular, or otherwise shaped to retain a rectangular card 118. In some examples, the cavity 106 may follow or correspond to the shape of-9-4913-1045-3628Y2Docket No. P322136.WO.01 the first or second portion 102, 104 (e.g., a rectangular cavity 106 and a rectangular first portion 102, as exemplified in Fig. 1). The cavity 106 may be defined up to or adjacent the peripheries 128, 138, or spaced inwardly from the peripheries 128, 138. In some examples, the cavity 106 may be shaped differently from the first portion 102 as whole (e.g., an oval-shaped cavity 106 and a rectangular first portion 102).

[0070] The first portion 102 or the second portion 104 may include a hanging aperture 142. The hanging aperture 142 may be an opening define through one or both of the first portion or the second portion 104 to receive a rod or similar feature to hang the package 100 for display.

[0071] With reference to Figs. 2 and 3B, the first portion 102 or the second portion 104 may include an access window or opening 140. The access opening 140 may be rectangular, oval, or another shape allowing viewing of machine-readable card sale information 150, or other information intended to be publicly viewable regarding the card 118. In some implementations, the first portion 102 or the second portion 104 may not include an access opening 140 or a hanging aperture 142.

[0072] The first portion 102 or the second portion 104 may be each or separately formed of cardboard, paper board, a plastic polymer, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene, or polypropylene, or various other materials. In some examples, the first portion 102 or second portion 104 may include two or more materials joined together. For example, either portion 102, 104 may be mostly a cardboard or paper board, and include a plastic material along the peripheries 128, 138 to receive, or define in part, a seal 114, or to define the cavity 106. Clear or transparent materials may enable visual inspection of the card cavity 106, or other features between the first portion 102 and second portion 104.

[0073] The package 100 may securely retain one or more transaction cards 118. In one example of a finished package 100, the transaction card(s) 118 are contained within the cavity 106. Transactions cards 118 included in the package 100 may be, for example, point-of-sale activated gift cards, credit or debit cards, or any other type of stored value card or transaction item.

[0074] The package 100 may optionally include a support or insert. The insert may be a feature to support, retain, or conceal the transaction card 118. For example, the insert may limit movement of or secure the card 118 in the cavity 106 or maintain the position of the card 118 in a viewable location of the package 100. The insert may include advertising or marketing-10-4913-1045-3628Y2Docket No. P322136.WO.01 information related to the card 118, such in examples with a clear or transparent first portion 102 or second portion 104. The insert may be a plastic, cardboard, paperboard, or various other materials. The insert may be larger or smaller than the transaction card 118, and in some examples, similar in size to the first portion 102 or second portion 104.

[0075] The transaction card 118 may be coupled (e.g., adhered) to the insert. For example, by using a removable adhesive. In some implementations, the transaction cards 118 may be covered by the support (e.g., between the two portions of the support). In other implementations, each of the card 118 and the insert may be separate (e.g., not attached).

[0076] In some examples, multiple transaction cards 118 may be included in a single package 100. In such an example, the insert may retain, support, or organize each of the cards 118. Further, in some implementations, additional materials, such as terms and conditions for the transaction cards 118 may be included on the insert.

[0077] The transaction card 118 may be purchased by scanning or reading machine readable information 150 (e.g., a barcode, QR code, or other scannable code) viewable from or on an exterior of the packaging 100. In examples where the insert covers a portion of a card 118, the insert may include one or more secondary access openings similar to access opening 140. The access openings enable viewing of machine -readable activation information 150 through the opening (e.g., when purchase information is located on a transaction card 118). In some implementations, machine readable information 150 for the transaction cards 118 may be printed on the insert, and the insert may not include the access openings.

[0078] The transaction cards 118 may be un-activated prior to purchase. That is, the cards 118 may have no value until they are purchased and undergo an activation process. Accordingly, the cards 118 include or are associated with machine readable information 150 to enable the purchase of the cards 118. The cards 118 are also associated with, and may include, confidential information 152 for activating and assigning value to the cards 118. If a person has access to the confidential information 152, they may use the cards 118 to complete transactions once value has been assigned to the cards 118. The confidential information 152 may be printed or located on the transaction card 118, or the optional insert. The confidential information 152 may be information needed to add or remove value assigned to the transaction card 118, or otherwise use the card 118 to complete a transaction. Accordingly, for a would-be-thief, the confidential information 152 may be the target of any tampering to the package 100, with the goal of-11-4913-1045-3628Y2Docket No. P322136.WO.01 obtaining and monitoring the confidential information 152 until a user purchases and assigns value to the card 118. In some examples, the confidential information 152 includes or is the machine readable information 150.

[0079] To form the package 100, the first portion 102 and the second portion 104 may be securely connected with at least one transaction card 118 in or retained by the card cavity 106. The first portion 102 and the second portion 104 may be coupled together to securely seal the cavity 106 or confidential information 152. For example, the first portion 102 and the second portion 104 may be joined together by a seal 114. For example, the first portion 102 may be sealed, joined, welded, fused, or otherwise attached to the second portion 104. The seal 114 may be defined by an adhesive, heat weld, RF weld, or the like.

[0080] In some examples, the package 110 additionally includes the optional insert. The insert may be placed within the card cavity 106, or otherwise between the first portion 102 and the second portion 104 prior to sealing. For example, the insert may have a shape corresponding to the cavity 106. or the first or second portions 102, 104. The insert may be sufficiently thin to extend between first and second portion 102, 104 and exterior to the cavity 106.

[0081] The seal 114 may join the rear surface 126 of the first portion 102 and the front surface 134 the second portion 104. For example, the seal 114 may be positioned along the base surfaces 122, 132 of the first or second portions 102, 104. The seal 114 encloses the cavity 106 to limit access to the card 118 through the seal 114. As the seal 114 extends around the first and second portions 102, 104, there are no openings through which to access the card 118 or optional insert to retrieve the confidential information 152.

[0082] The seal 114 may extend along all or a portion of the peripheries 128, 138 of the first portion 102 and the second portion 104. In some examples, the seal 114 is continuous or includes a plurality of connections spaced along the peripheries 128, 138 and between the cavity 106 sufficiently tight to prevent access to the cavity 106. In some implementations, the seal 114 may extend to adjacent or along the perimeter of the portions 102 and 104. A portion of the seal 114 or a second seal 114 may be located between the hanging apertures 142 and cavity 106 to prevent access to the cavity 106 through the hanging apertures 142.

[0083] The seal 114 may be sufficiently strong or durable that attempting to separate the first portion 102 and second portion 104, such as opening by hand, may result in damage (e.g. peeling, cracking, deformations, or the like) to the first portion 102, second portion 104, or other-12-4913-1045-3628Y2Docket No. P322136.WO.01 features of the package 100. For example, the seal 114 may, in some implementations, create a unitary structure between the first portion 102 and the second portion 104, thus making breaking and / or penetrating the seal 114 more difficult. The seal 114 may be sufficiently wide or strong to prevent unnoticeable damage if penetrated or separated, as it requires at least one of the first portion 102, second portion 104, seal 114, or other features to be damaged noticeably damaged during the opening.

[0084] However, some conventional seals may be susceptible to failure under the application of heat energy at or above a degradation temperature. The degradation temperature may be a temperature threshold where the seal 114 weakens or degrades enabling the separation of the first portion 102 and the second portion 104. The degradation temperature is most commonly above a temperature likely encountered by natural means during shipping, storage, or display of the card or package 100 and requiring intentional acts by a would-be-thief. During such acts, would-be- thieves apply heat energy, such as with a heat gun or other tools, to degrade seals and open existing product packaging. In some examples, chemicals or reagents may additionally or alternatively be used to degrade seals. The thieves then retrieve the confidential information 152 associated with the cards, repackage the cards, and attempt to either resell the cards or return the cards to a retailer for a consumer to purchase and activate the card. At such time, the thieves retrieve or otherwise use the value associated with the activated card for their own purposes.

[0085] As described herein, the package 100 includes tamper evident features 170 to reduce or eliminate the risk of thieves passing off tampered products to an unsuspecting consumer. The tamper evident features 170 are illustrated in each of Figs. 2-5B and described in detail with reference to Figs. 3A to 5G. The tamper evident features 170 change from a first configuration 172, often a first visual appearance, to a second configuration 174, often a second visual appearance, as a result of conditions commonly indicative of tampering and that is distinct from the first configuration, see Figs. 5A-5B. In many examples, the second configuration 174 is defined by color or patterns that contrast with the first configuration 172 or the packaging 100 or cards 118 generally 100. The tamper evident features 170 in the first configuration may be inconspicuous or patterned with the packaging 100 or cards 118 to increase the difficulty of circumventing the features or to provide an aesthetic benefit.

[0086] With reference to Figs. 5A and 5B, the package 100 may include one or more visual or aesthetic features 160. The visual features 160 may be branding, product information, value-13-4913-1045-3628Y2Docket No. P322136.WO.01 ranges for the cards 118, or other information to assist in identifying, understanding, or marketing the transaction cards 118 to a consumer. The visual features 160 may include patterns or coloring. The visual features 160 may be printed or adhered to the first portion 102, second portion 104, the cards 118, or the optional insert. In some example, visual information 160 may be applied to or along a portion of the seal 114.

[0087] The package 100 includes one or more tamper evident features 170 to indicate to a consumer tampering to the package 100 or cards 118. The tamper evident features 170 include a visually changing material or visually changing ink 176 that irreversibly changes appearances responsive to at least one method of tampering. For example, the tamper evident features 170 can be heat activated to change appearance when exposed to a range of temperatures including at least a temperature that would degrade the seal 114 or packaging 100 generally. In some examples, the entirety of the tamper evident feature 170 changes appearance or only a portion of the tamper evident feature is activated responsive to tampering conditions. In one example, the initial color or first configuration 172 may be black, white, or otherwise blend with the packaging. The second configuration or appearance 174 may be a contrasting or attentiongrabbing shade or color, such as orange, black on white, or the like. For example, the tamper evident feature 170 changes from a first configuration 172, exemplified as hidden in Fig. 4A, to a second configuration 174 in response to the heat, exemplified by symbols or shade change in Fig. 4B. The change in appearance may be a change in color from a first color to a second color. In some examples, the visually changing feature 170 may change configurations when exposed to chemicals or reagents that may damage the seal.

[0088] In some examples, the tamper evident feature 170 is a label or layer applied to the packaging 100 or card 118. With reference to Figs. 4A and 4B, an example label or layer of tamper evidencing feature 170 is illustrated. It is appreciated the tamper evidencing feature 170 may be thin or have an inconspicuous thickness in comparison to the object to which it is applied. In some examples, the tamper evident feature 170 is coated with, or includes an exterior side formed of. a heat or chemical sensitive material 176. In some examples, the tamper evident feature 170 may be or include a dye, ink, or the like that changes a configuration or appearance, such as a reflectiveness, color, contrast, or the like when subjected to heat at a temperature at or above the degradation temperature (e.g., a temperature at which the seal 114 degrades or separates). Optionally, the tamper evident feature 170 can include or be attached to an object by-14-4913-1045-3628Y2Docket No. P322136.WO.01 an adhesive or bonding agent 178. In one example, the tamper evident feature 170 is a direct thermal paper portion applied as a label or defined as a portion of the packaging 100.

[0089] The tamper evident feature 170 may be applied along with the visual features 160, or separately printed or attached to the package 100. The visual features 160 can be overprinted on or adjacent the tamper evident feature 170. For example, printing can be performed at a temperature or pressure which does not activate the tamper evident features 170. Overprinting assists in concealing the tamper evident feature 170.

[0090] The tamper evident feature 170 may be applied to or included in any of the structures of the package 100 or the card 118. The tamper evident feature may be applied to one or more of the first portion 102, second portion 104, cards 118, seal 114, or the optional insert. Because the first portion 102 or second portion 104 may be readily visible, it may be preferrable to apply the tamper evident feature 170 to such features rather than the card 118. Further, by not applying the tamper evident feature 170 to the card 118, a card 118 in a changed package 100 may be reused if tampering to the card 118 is ruled out.

[0091] The tamper evident feature 170 is applied to the exterior of the package 100 (e.g., the front portion 102 or rear portion 104). The tamper evident feature 170 may be applied at or adjacent the seal 114, where exposure to heat due to tampering may be likely. For example, the tamper evident feature 170 may be applied along a portion of the peripheries 128, 138. The tamper evident feature 170 may be applied before or after coupling the first portion 102 and second portion 104 by the seal 114. In such examples that further include a seal 114 formed in part by heat, the tamper evident features 170 can be spaced from the seal 114 a sufficient distance to avoid activation.

[0092] The initial configuration 172 of the tamper evident feature 170 may correspond to the visual features 160. For example, the tamper evident feature 170 may be effectively concealed as a portion of the visual features 160, or otherwise unassuming absent tampering. In such examples, the tamper evident feature 170 may be applied with the visual features 160 in corresponding patterns or have an initial configuration 172 matching the visual features 160. The tamper evident feature 170 may be applied to portions of the package 100 at or adjacent likely areas of focus by the consumer or retailer, such as the listed value, machine readable information 150 (bar codes, SKUS, or the like), branding, or the like.-15-4913-1045-3628Y2Docket No. P322136.WO.01

[0093] In the event of theft and an attack to the seal 114, thieves commonly use tools that apply heat to degrade the seal 114. In some examples, in a large or inconsistent manner. For example, a heat gun may apply heat over the entirety of the package 100, or other contact based heat sources may apply heat in a varying manner due to the manual nature of the tool. The application of heat energy activates and changes the appearance of the tamper evident feature 170 to indicate exposure to heat energy.

[0094] After being exposed to heat at or above the degradation temperature, the tamper evident feature 170 changes appearance to contrast from an initial configuration 172 to a second configuration 174. The second configuration 174 can further contrast with the visual features 160. The second configuration 174 of the tamper evident feature 170 may form a new or changed pattern, words, symbols, images, or a change otherwise indicating a risk of tampering to the package 100. In some examples, the second changed appearance 174 of the tamper evident feature 170 may obscure or overlap with the machine-readable information 150, thereby preventing the purchase or activation of cards 118 contained in tampered packages 100. For example, the tamper evident feature could change the white of a scannable area (e.g., bar code, QR code, or the like) to black, or the black to white, preventing reading of the scannable area.

[0095] The change in appearance of the tamper evident feature 170 may be permanent or irreversible. By permanently changing appearance, once the package 100 is exposed to heat or chemicals that may degrade the seal 114, a would-be-thief is unable to return the package 100 to its original appearance. The permanently changed appearance of the package 100 may ensure the second configuration 174 remains visible to one or more of the consumer, a retailer, or the thief to communicate the package 100 or card 118 are no longer secure and should be voided. In examples where the tamper evident feature 170 is initially concealed, concealing the tamper evident feature 170 in an initial configuration 172 increases contrast between tampered packages, with the tamper evident feature 170 in the second or tampered configuration 174, and untampered packages where the tamper evident feature 170 is not otherwise visible.

[0096] In some examples, exposure to high temperatures, contaminants, or chemicals may also inhibit or impair the functionality of the card 118 once activated - whether due to tampering or due to issues during manufacturing, shipping, display, the like. For example, high temperatures may damage included circuits, magnetic strips, other features of the cards 118 used to complete the transaction. Similarly, high heat or chemicals may degrade the integrity and security of the-16-4913-1045-3628Y2Docket No. P322136.WO.01 packaging 100 such that they could be susceptible to theft or tampering. The visually changing feature 170 may thus additionally or alternatively assist in identifying damaged packaging 100 or cards 118.

[0097] For tamper evident packages 100, a retailer of the packages 100 may be provided with a key or reference guide to assist in identifying tampered packages. For example, the second configuration 174 of the heat activated feature may be readily identifiable by visual inspection, but relatively inconspicuous to an untrained viewer. In such an example, the key may be used as a reference to the location or pattern of the tamper evident feature 170. By visually identifying tampering, but without alerting a would-be-thief, the retailer may identify and track thieves or the rate of tampering of various products. For example, inconspicuous feature 170 can avoid alerting the thieves and encourage a return of the products to a retail location, rather than avoiding returns once the tamper evident feature 170 is revealed during tampering offsite. Further, consumers may remain unalarmed and simply provided with a non-tampered replacement package, avoiding anxiety regarding the safety of their purchase that may dissuade them from the transaction.

[0098] In some examples, at the point of transaction the retailer may intentionally activate the tamper evident feature 170 to ensure the feature is still retained on the product or that the product is genuine. In some examples, the tamper evident feature 170 can inhibit secondary or otherwise unauthorized sales of the tamper evident feature by obscuring the machine readable information 150 or confidential information 152.

[0099] The key may additionally or separately be useful to distinguish tampered packages from packages having converted, at least in part, to the second configuration 174 that may be due to harmless manufacturing, shipping, or stocking processes. For example, the formation of the seal 114 may activate a portion of some examples of the tamper evident feature 170, but in a consistent pattern that is separately identifiable from a tampered and resealed package. In such an example, the key and heat activated feature 170 together may reduce the risk of a would-be- thief retrieving the cards 118 and placing them in a package sourced from a knock-off provider.

[0100] Figs. 5A-5G, indicate additional examples of the packaging including the tamper evident feature 170. In each of the examples depicted in Figs. 6A-6F, the tamper evident features may initially appear the same or similar to the packaging 100 of Figs. 1-3B and 5A-5B. The packages may additionally or alternatively include visual features 160 corresponding to,-17-4913-1045-3628Y2Docket No. P322136.WO.01 concealing, or contrasting with the tamper evident feature 170 in the first configuration 172 and contrasting with the tamper evident feature 170 having the second configuration 174. In other examples, the tamper evident features 170 in the second configuration 174 can obscure, disrupt, or form a second overall visual impression in combination with the visual features 160.

[0101] With reference to Fig. 6A, an example of the packaging 200 is shown. The tamper evident feature 202 of the packaging 200 may be words or messaging to communicate the tampering to a potential consumer. In one example, “VOID” may be printed or appear around the perimeter. The terms “VOID” or other words may be overprinted and blend with the tamper evident feature 202 in an untampered configuration and then become visible when the tamper evident feature 202 is in the tampered configuration. In other examples, the heat or chemical activated portion of the tamper evident feature 202 forms the terms or characters. In some examples, multiple words may be used. For example, varying sensitivities of the tamper evident feature 202 may be achieved, such as based on proximity to the seal 114 and likely exposure or by varying the type, size, or position of the tamper evident 202 used. In such an example, the messaging may increase in severity based on a likely level of exposure to heat or tampering, such as from “VOID” or “RETURN TO SELLER” to “DO NOT PURCHASE” or similar.

[0102] Figs. 6B-6F, display example patterns resulting from activation of the tamper evident feature that may be applied to the packaging. In each of the examples, the pattern can be formed by the tamper evident feature in an activated state, or by visual features printed over or adjacent the tamper evident feature that contrast with the tamper evident feature in a second configuration. The tamper evident features can each be applied before or after sealing of the packaging 100.

[0103] One example of the tamper evident feature 212 may be applied adjacent the periphery 128, 138 of the packaging 210, see Fig. 6B. Spacing the tamper evident feature 212 from the periphery 128, 138 can limit or prevent activation of the tamper evident feature 212 during sealing if applied before sealing. In another example, the tamper evident feature 222 may be applied to extend along the periphery 128, 138 and to the perimeter of the packaging 220, see Fig. 6C. In examples 230 and 240, the tamper evident feature 232, 242 may be applied in a decorative pattern along or adjacent the periphery 128, 138, see Figs. 6D and 6E. An additional example pattern 252 is depicted in the example 250 of Fig. 6F. These patterns may be useful for indicating tampering, while limiting alarm to a consumer. For example, these patterns may be-18-4913-1045-3628Y2Docket No. P322136.WO.01 understood or recognized by an employee of retailer such that the consumer may be prevented from purchasing a tampered product, but not otherwise turned off from purchasing the cards 118 generally. In other examples, the tamper evident patterns may be displayed as a warning on the packaging viewable by a consumer to read and recognize.

[0104] In some examples, as shown in Fig. 6G, an entirety of the packaging 260 may include the tamper evident feature 262. In such an example, the tamper evident feature 262 may be visible over the entirety of the package 260 when changed to a second configuration. In other examples, the tamper evident feature 262 may only change where heat is applied, but by covering the entirety of the packaging 260, new methods of heat attacks that may avoid the seal may be thwarted or indicated. In such an example, the tamper evident feature 262 can be overprinted with visual features 160 or otherwise remain inconspicuous prior to activation.

[0105] It is appreciated numerous additional patterns, or combinations of patterns may be described and used with the tamper evident feature and packaging described herein.

[0106] Figs. 7A and 7B illustrate example methods 300 and 350 for constructing a tamper evident card package 100 in accordance with description herein. Prior to the steps of the method 300 or 350, various structures of the packaging such as the first portion 102, second portion 104, card 118, or insert may be formed. For example, the first portions 102 or second portions 104 may be formed, such as in sheets. In some examples, the first portions 102 may be cut, molded, or thermoformed to form cavities 106.

[0107] The method 300 may include applying a heat activated feature 170 to one or more of a first packaging portion 102 or a second packaging portion 104 at step 310. Optionally, the heat activated feature 170 may optionally be applied to the card 118 or the optional insert, if included. The heat activated or tamper evident feature 170 may be applied by printing the feature 170 onto the packaging 100 or card 118, or the tamper evident feature 170 can be a label or layer adhered to the packaging 100 or card 118. The tamper evident feature 170 may be printed onto or defined by a separate feature which is attached, adhered to, or otherwise associated with the packaging 100. The tamper evident feature 170 has a first configuration 172 when applied to the one or more of the first packaging portion 102 or the second packaging portion 104.

[0108] The method 300 may optionally include applying one or more visual or aesthetic features 160 to the one or more of the first packaging portion 102 or the second packaging portion 104. For example, the aesthetic features 160 may be printed, adhered to, or otherwise-19-4913-1045-3628Y2Docket No. P322136.WO.01 attached to the features. In some implementations, either or both of the portions 102 and 104 may be printed prior to the method 300. In some examples, the visual features 160 or confidential information 152 is printed or placed over the tamper evidencing feature 170. The visual features 160 or confidential information 152 can be placed over the tamper evidencing feature 170 prior to or after the placement of the tamper evidencing feature 170 on the card packaging 100 or transaction card 118.

[0109] The method 300 may include step 320 locating a transaction card 118 at a card cavity or receptacle 106 defined by the first portion 102 or the second portion 104. A locating operation may include locating packaging portions 102, 104 on tooling using the cavities 106 formed in the packaging portions 102, 104. In some implementations, the locating operation 320 may place additional materials (e.g., the optional insert or the like) into cavities 106. In some implementations, multiple transaction cards 118 are placed into each cavity 106 during the locating operation 320. In implementations where inserts are placed in the cavities 106, the transaction cards 118 may be adhered to the support and placed in a cavity 106. The operation 320 may place transaction cards 118 in the cavity 106 such that machine readable information 150 is visible when looking into the cavity 106.

[0110] The method 300 may include step 330 including coupling the first portion 102 and the second portion 104 by the seal 114 to securely retain the transaction card 118 at the card receptacle 106 to define the tamper evident packaging 100. In one example, a sealing operation forms a seal 114 around at least a portion of the periphery 128, 138 of each of the packaging portions 102, 104. In another example, the sealing operation forms a seal 114 around at least a portion of the receptacle to inhibit access to or removal of the cards 118. The sealing operation may use any type of sealing, welding, adhesives, or joining that creates the seals 114.

[0111] In one implementation, the front portion 102 is joined to the rear portion 104 using radiofrequency (RF) sealing, which may also be referred to as high frequency or RF welding. Generally, RF sealing uses radiofrequency to excite molecules of a plastic polymer, generating heat and fusing two pieces of the plastic polymer together as they cool. The two pieces of plastic polymer may be associated with each of the first portion 102 and second portion 104 and held between dies or platens as the RF signal is applied and as the layers cool. In some instances, no adhesive is positioned between the portions sealed using RF sealing.-20-4913-1045-3628Y2Docket No. P322136.WO.01

[0112] During the sealing operation 330, several variables may be controlled or adjusted before the sealing operation 330 to ensure quality seals 114. For example, in some implementations, heating time, sealing time, and / or temperature may be adjusted based on environmental factors, such as the temperature or humidity of the environment. The parameters may also be set to prevent or control activation and change to the tamper evident feature 170.

[0113] In other examples, the sealing may be performed by applying an adhesive or sealant forming the seal 114 to one or both of the first portion 102 or second portion 104. Each of the first portion 102 and the second portion 104 can be engaged with (e.g., in contact) each other or the seal 114. Pressure, heat, or an activating agent can be applied to the seal 114 to form a bond between the seal 114 and the first portion 102 and the second portion 104.

[0114] With reference to Fig. 6B, another method 350 includes step 360 of coupling a first packaging portion 102 and a second packaging portion 104 by a seal 114 to securely retain a transaction card 118 in a card receptacle 116. In some examples, the first packaging portion 102 and the second packaging are connected, at least in part, prior to receiving the card 118 or the application of the seal 114.

[0115] Method 350 includes step 370 of applying a tamper evidencing feature 170 to one or more of the first packaging portion 102, the second packaging portion 104, or the transaction card 118. In some examples, the tamper evidencing feature is adhered to an exterior of the first packaging portion or the second packaging portion after coupling the first portion and the second portion. In other examples, the tamper evidencing feature is applied to the first packaging portion, the second packaging portion, or the transaction card prior to coupling the first packaging portion and the second packaging portion.

[0116] In some examples of the method 350, one or more aesthetic features 160 or confidential information 152 are printed over the tamper evidencing feature 170. At block 370, responsive to the application of heat, the tamper evidencing feature 170 changes from a first configuration to a second configuration visibly distinct from the first configuration when exposed to heat at a threshold temperature inclusive of a temperature at which the seal degrades. In some examples, the first configuration of the heat activated feature 170 corresponds to the aesthetic features 160 or confidential information 152 and the second configuration contrasts with the aesthetic features 160or confidential information 152.-21-4913-1045-3628Y2Docket No. P322136.WO.01

[0117] After forming the packaging 100, the tamper evident feature 170 may be useful to reduce or eliminate the risk of thieves passing off tampered products. For example, the heat activated feature 170 changes from a first configuration 172 to a second configuration 174 when heat is applied to the tamper evident card packaging 100 above a threshold temperature. The threshold temperature being a temperature required to degrade the seal 114.

[0118] Other examples and implementations are within the scope and spirit of the disclosure and appended claims. For example, features implementing functions may also be physically located at various positions, including being distributed such that portions of functions are implemented at different physical locations. Also, as used herein, including in the claims, “or” as used in a list of items prefaced by “at least one of’ indicates a disjunctive list such that, for example, a list of “at least one of A, B, or C” means A or B or C or AB or AC or BC or ABC (i.e., A and B and C). Further, the term “exemplary” does not mean that the described example is preferred or better than other examples.

[0119] The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, uses specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not targeted to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings.4913-1045-3628Y2

Claims

Docket No. P322136.WO.01CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A tamper evident card packaging comprising: a transaction card; a first portion; a second portion coupled to the first portion at least in part by a seal; and a visually changing feature applied to one or more of the transaction card, the first portion, or the second portion; wherein, the first portion and the second portion together or separately define a card receptacle to retain the transaction card and the seal inhibits removal of the transaction card from the card receptacle, and the visually changing feature irreversibly changes appearance when subjected to heat at or above a tamper temperature.

2. The tamper evident packaging of claim 1, wherein the seal is defined by one or more of a heat seal, radio frequency weld, or adhesive.

3. The tamper evident packaging of any of claims 1-2, wherein the tamper temperature is a temperature threshold at or below a temperature at which the seal degrades or releases.

4. The tamper evident packaging of any of claim 1-3, further comprising: an insert positioned within the card receptacle and in contact with the transaction card, and the insert includes one or more of the visually changing feature or confidential information.

5. The tamper evident packaging of any of claims 1-3, wherein the visually changing feature has an initial configuration including a first visible color, and-23-4913-1045-3628Y2Docket No. P322136.WO.01 after being subjected to the heat at or above the tamper temperature, the visually changing feature has a second configuration including a second color different from the first color.

6. The tamper evident packaging of claim 5, further comprising: aesthetic features including one or more of coloring, text, or images; the initial configuration of the visually changing feature visually corresponds with the aesthetic features such that the visually changing feature is visually inconspicuous, and the second configuration of the visually changing feature visually contrasts with the aesthetic features.

7. The tamper evident packaging of any of claims 1-6, wherein the seal extends along at least a portion of a perimeter of the card receptacle, and the seal prevents access to the card receptacle at temperatures below the tamper temperature without damaging at least one of the seal, the first portion, or the second portion.

8. The tamper evident packaging of any of claims 1-7, wherein the visually changing feature is one or more of a label, layer, or activatable ink positioned at an exterior of at least one of the first portion, the second portion, or the transaction card.

9. A tamper evidencing packaging comprising: a first portion; a second portion connected to the first portion to define a receptacle to securely retain a product; a seal defining at least in part a connection between the first portion and the second portion to define the receptacle; and a tamper evident feature applied to at least one of the first portion or the second portion: wherein: in a first configuration the tamper evident feature forms a first visible appearance that is visually inconspicuous;-24-4913-1045-3628Y2Docket No. P322136.WO.01 the tamper evident feature irreversibly changes to a second configuration forming a second visible appearance different from the first visible appearance when exposed to a range of temperatures inclusive of a tamper temperature at which the seal is degradable such that the receptacle becomes accessible.

10. The tamper evidencing packaging of claim 9. wherein the tamper evident feature is one or more of a label, layer, or activatable ink.

11. The tamper evidencing packaging of any of claims 9-10, wherein the tamper evident feature is positioned on an exterior of the tamper evidencing card packaging.

12. The tamper evidencing packaging of any of claims 9-11, wherein the tamper evident feature is over printed by one or more visual features including one or more of text, images, or coloring, the first visible appearance and the one or more visual features to at least partially conceal the tamper evident feature in the first configuration.

13. The tamper evidencing packaging of claim 12, in the second configuration, the second visible appearance contrasts with the one or more visual features.

14. The tamper evidencing packaging of claim 12, in the second configuration, the second visible appearance at least partially conceals the visual features.

15. The tamper evidencing packaging of any of claims 9-14, wherein the tamper evident feature is overprinted by confidential information necessary to one of activate, purchase, or use a transaction card associated with the tamper evidencing packaging; in the second configuration, the second visible appearance inhibits one or more of reading or scanning the confidential information.-25-4913-1045-3628Y2Docket No. P322136.WO.0116. A method for constructing a tamper evident card packaging comprising: coupling a first packaging portion and a second packaging portion by a seal to securely retain a transaction card in a card receptacle; and applying a tamper evidencing feature to one or more of the first packaging portion, the second packaging portion, or the transaction card: wherein the tamper evidencing feature changes from a first configuration to a second configuration visibly distinct from the first configuration when exposed to heat at a threshold temperature inclusive of a temperature at which the seal degrades.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising: applying one or more aesthetic features to the one or more of the first packaging portion or the second packaging portion; and wherein the first configuration of the tamper evidencing feature corresponds to the aesthetic features and the second configuration contrasts with the aesthetic features.

18. The method of any of claims 16-17, wherein the tamper evidencing feature is adhered to an exterior of the first packaging portion or the second packaging portion after coupling the first portion and the second portion.

19. The method of any of claims 16-17, wherein the tamper evidencing feature is applied to the first packaging portion, the second packaging portion, or the transaction card prior to coupling the first packaging portion and the second packaging portion.

20. The method of any of claims 16-19, further comprising: printing one or more aesthetic features or confidential information over the tamper evidencing feature.-26-4913-1045-3628Y2

Images