Münchendorf, February 2026
Unjustified returns are becoming an increasing problem, particularly in the fashion sector. Consumers sometimes fraudulently return garments after wearing them. A newly developed Garment Security Label is designed to help online fashion retailers significantly reduce the return of worn items.
The security label is visibly attached to the garment. If customers decide to keep the item, the label can be removed cleanly and without leaving any residue. Returns, however, are only possible as long as the label remains intact.
Once the opening mechanism is triggered, this is clearly visible. Any attempt to restore the label to its original condition after wearing the garment is no longer possible, as the irreversible opening mechanism destroys the security label.
Garment security label on a T-Shirt; 1: applied, 2: peeled, 3: residue-free removal, 4: tampered
“Retailers can immediately see whether a garment or apparel has been worn or used or not. This creates clarity in the returns process and reduces conflicts,” says Vanessa Mitterer-Kling, Head of R&D at Securikett
The tampered or destroyed label is completely removeable
from the garment, without leaving residues behind
Return Rates Are Particularly High in Fashion
General analyses of return behavior show that clothing and footwear are returned more frequently than other products. Studies from Europe indicate significantly higher return rates for apparel and shoes compared to other product categories.
While these returns are not always fraudulent, they create an environment in which wardrobing and similar misconduct can have significant economic consequences for retailers.
High-Tech Label
The high-tech label developed by Securikett provides protection against return fraud, particularly for premium clothing items, such as garments purchased for a single occasion and then returned.
The residue-free security labels are suitable for most common textiles and can be customized in terms of adhesive, size, design, and level of tamper protection.
from left to right: Garment Security Label applied, peeled, and tampered
Companies interested in testing the Garment Security Label can request samples.
