Abstract: A method for embedding covert information on a printed substrate is provided. The method can include the steps of printing overt indicia on a substrate and generating a pattern of microtext representative of at least a portion of the overt indicia. Such microtext is capable of being printed in at least two distinct fonts, including a first font and a second font. The method can further include steps of varying the pattern of microtext such that at least one character of the pattern of microtext is configured to be printed in the first font and at least one character is configured to be printed in the second font, thereby providing a font variation which corresponds to a covert code, and printing the pattern of microtext which includes the font variation on the substrate.

Abstract: A method for authenticating a target item with a security code is provided. The method includes the steps of determining a first content of security information to be coded, determining a second content of security information to be coded, printing a plurality of color tiles on a target item where the plurality of color tiles define the first content of security information, and printing one or more micro-markings on one or more of the color tiles located on the target item. The one or more micro-markings define the second content of security information.