Midwest Bank Note Company present a few of the security paper, security ink, design and security print features which Midwest Bank Note Co. can incorporate into a security design. The number of features available to us is too large to detail here. We encourage clients to assess their security needs based on the threats that confront them and the functional needs / performance of their documents. With this information we can better recommend the level of security required and the most appropriate features to achieve this.

We offer true watermarks. These are genuine watermarks embedded in the paper fibers. Security watermarks offer a combination of raise, shadow and multi-tone effects. They are virtually impossible to reproduce, even using the most advanced photocopiers and electronic scanners.

Paper is treated on both sides to enhance toner retention during laser printing. The heat from the laser printer activates a chemical reaction that fuses the toner to the paper. This feature protects against fraudulent alteration by frustrating attempts to remove or scrape off printed data.

Paper is sensitized to those families of chemical agents such as: oxidants, solvents, alcohol, and acids/bases that are commonly used by forgers to alter personalized information. Use of these agents will cause noticeable stains to appear the instant anyone attempts to alter the document.

Colored security fibers are embedded in the paper during the manufacturing process. Security fibers are available in different colors and formats: visible fluorescent fibers or invisible fluorescent fibers. Fibers act as an authentication feature. Invisible fibers show up under ultraviolet light whereas visible fluorescent fibers change color under ultraviolet light.

This feature is a line or block of continuous, repeated text. The micro-line is only legible under magnification and will appear as a straight, blurred line when copied or scanned.

A hidden word such as "void" or "copy" forms an integral part of this anti-copy background. When copied the hidden word visualizes thereby deterring the use of copies as counterfeits.

These inks are invisible under normal lighting conditions. When viewed under an ultraviolet (black light) source a strong visual image appears. They are available in a number of different colors of fluorescence.

Holograms offer a quick, visible security feature that can be used for authentication. Their bright and reflective appearance makes them impossible to copy or scan. Their depth, 2D/3D movement and color changing properties make them impossible to simulate by substitute materials or alternative processes. It is also possible to incorporate covert features into holograms for added protection.

While not offering much security, foils can bring attractive color and decorative additions to a document. Available in a variety of colors, foils can be stamped in an infinite number of sizes to represent logos, names, text and other design elements. Combinations of up to 3 color foils on one document can be achieved with foil over foil features. This can be further enhanced with embossing and other fine detail finishing.

By dividing the press inking fountain by color, the printer can create a background of varying colors which merge gradually from one to another. Color copiers and scanners have difficulty resolving these subtle color migrations.

Letters, words, numbers and symbols can be hidden in engraved intaglio printing. Varying the line direction, thickness and depth of the engraving these images are hidden to the naked eye but visualize when natural light hits them at a certain angle of incidence. To verify their presence lay the document flat at eye-level and view the engraved area.