This paper presents a new optical surface technology known as COUNTERF
OIL. The COUNTERFOIL technology provides a means of covert information
storage and is used as the basis for a range of security seals and la
bels. The technology has obtained Australian Government Endorsement (S
CEC Endorsement) for use in high security applications. It provides a
convenient, low cost means to determine authenticity and detect tamper
ing or surreptitious access.