Abstract: A universal system with a unique process is presented to validate the authenticity of a merchandise item using the manufacturer's digital signature embedded in a RFID/smart card tag that is mounted with a merchandise item. This system consists of only the tag reader and the tag and doesn't require complicated mounting methods. New process and methods are devised to allow manufacturers to make and deploy the tags with its own digital signature, and enable buyers not only to validate the authenticity of a merchandise item easily and reliably, but also to check the authenticity of the tag reader itself before the first use.