Digimarc Corporation and Zebra Technologies have announced a partnership that will embed Digimarc’s on‑scanner digital security software into Zebra’s retail scanners, including the DS8100 handheld and MP7000 multi‑plane models. The integration will allow retailers to automatically detect tampered gift cards at the point of sale, preventing the activation of fraudulent cards and speeding checkout.
The new software uses a digital watermark embedded in the card’s magnetic stripe and chip to verify authenticity in real time. When a card is scanned, the scanner checks the watermark against a secure database; if the watermark is missing or altered, the transaction is blocked and the cashier is alerted. This eliminates the need for manual inspection and reduces the risk of fraud while keeping the checkout process frictionless.
This partnership marks the first deployment of Digimarc’s technology across Zebra’s retail scanner lineup and is expected to roll out to the rest of Zebra’s portfolio in early 2026. For Digimarc, the deal expands the reach of its gift‑card security solution beyond its existing hardware partners and positions the company as a key enabler for retailers looking to protect against the growing threat of gift‑card fraud. For Zebra, the integration enhances the value proposition of its scanners by adding a built‑in fraud‑prevention capability that can be marketed to large retail chains and convenience‑store operators.
Gift‑card fraud has become a major cost driver for retailers, with losses reaching $250 million in 2024 and 25% of all FTC fraud complaints that year related to gift cards. Digimarc’s solution is reported to be more than three times more secure than card‑only security features, and the partnership addresses a critical need for retailers to reduce fraud losses while maintaining a smooth customer experience.
Ken Sickles, Digimarc’s Chief Product Officer, said the collaboration “demonstrates how our technology can be seamlessly integrated into existing retail hardware to deliver real‑time fraud protection and a frictionless checkout experience.” He added that early pilots with Zebra devices have shown zero incidents of fraud and faster card scanning, which “has delighted cashiers and consumers alike.”
The content on BeyondSPX is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial or investment advice. We are not financial advisors. Consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. Any actions you take based on information from this site are solely at your own risk.