Below is an interesting article on synthetic DNA which can be used to locate stolen articles. While I certainly can see its positive uses for major stolen items, I question the extra burden, and costs, for uses in places like pawn shops. I seriously question how many pawn shops would utilize this. And what's next, hitting the yard sales? I also question if this wouldn't be opening a can of worms in court:
By John Roach
Thieves may be finding it more difficult to pawn off stolen goods, thanks to new technologies that can put invisible marks on everything from copper wire to flat-screen TVs. Two British companies at the forefront of the technology, Selectamark Security Systems and SmartWater Technology, were recently profiled by PhysOrg.com and The Economist.
The companies liken the technology to uniquely identifiable synthetic DNA that is permanently attached to goods. The microscopic markings can help scrap dealers, pawn shops and cops determine if the loot under consideration is stolen — and, if so, from where.
Microdots and adhesive
SelectaMark's technology is called SelectaDNA. It's a nearly impossible-to-remove transparent adhesive embedded with nickel alloy or polyester microdots (see image above) that contain a unique code and phone number. The information glows in ultraviolet light and can be read under a microscope.
Each batch of adhesive also has a unique marking. The code is stored along with customer details in a database. That way, even a tiny bit of adhesive can be used to identify the rightful owner of the object. A "home kit" costs about $80 (50 British pounds) . . " Read More
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