Abstract: Described is a weakening device for weakening packaging materials having at least one laser unit comprising a laser having a laser beam and at least one transport device for transport of the packaging material relative to the laser unit. The laser unit has at least one focusing optics for focusing the laser beam on the packaging material transported relative to the laser. In order to be able to inscribe both straight lines of weakness and shapes included from lines, it is provided that the laser unit has at least one scanner for adjusting the laser beam at least in one direction transversely to the transport direction for inscribing predetermined shapes into the packaging material transported past the laser, and that a beam switch is provided in the path of the laser beam for transmitting the beam to the focusing optics in a liner position or to the scanner.