Abstract: Product package, comprising a data storage device, packaging material, and an authentication system. The authentication system comprises first and second coatings coated on the storage device and the packaging material. One of the coatings comprises chromogenic microcapsules capable of reacting to produce color. The other coating comprises color developer. The coatings can be bonded to each other or a composite coating can be a self-contained color former such as on the storage device. The invention further comprises methods of affirming authenticity of a data storage device. The method comprises applying to the storage device a color-reactable coating which can react with a color-producing second composition, packaging the storage device to provide a closed and sealed packaged, opening the package, and concurrent with or after opening the package, reacting the chemical compositions to produce the color as an indication of authenticity of the data storage device.