SmartWater works by marking assets, intruders, or property with a unique, invisible liquid signature that is forensically traceable back to its origin.
SmartWater is a product developed by DeterTech designed to deter crime and help law enforcement identify stolen property and link criminals to crime scenes. The core mechanism relies on an invisible liquid containing a unique forensic code specific to a particular location or owner.
The Science Behind the Marking
According to Club Insure, SmartWater is an "irrefutable, invisible liquid that is difficult to remove from skin and clothes." This makes it a persistent marker. Each batch of SmartWater liquid contains a unique identifier, much like a DNA signature. This signature is created using a complex mixture of synthetic DNA or other traceable elements.
Key Characteristics of SmartWater:
- Invisible: The liquid is virtually undetectable under normal lighting conditions.
- Unique Signature: Each batch contains a distinct forensic code, linking it to a specific user or location.
- Persistent: It's designed to be very difficult to wash off skin, hair, clothing, and assets, potentially remaining detectable for weeks or even months.
- Forensically Traceable: The unique signature can be scientifically analyzed to identify the source.
The Working Process
- Application: The SmartWater liquid is applied to valuable assets, property, or can be deployed via systems that spray intruders upon entry.
- Marking: Assets, intruders, or foundations are marked with this invisible liquid.
- Detection: Trained law enforcement officers can use special UV lights to reveal the presence of the invisible SmartWater liquid on suspects, clothing, tools, or recovered stolen goods.
- Forensic Analysis: If a suspect or property is found marked, a tiny sample of the liquid can be collected.
- Tracing: This sample is sent to a forensic laboratory. The lab analyzes the unique signature within the liquid.
- Identification: By analyzing the signature, the lab can definitively identify the registered owner or specific location the SmartWater came from. As the reference states, this marking "acts as a signature which can be forensically analysed and tracked back to your premises."
How it Helps:
- Deterrence: Prominent signage indicating the use of SmartWater acts as a powerful deterrent to potential criminals who know they risk being forensically linked to a crime.
- Evidence: Provides irrefutable forensic evidence linking a suspect to a crime scene or possession of stolen goods.
- Property Recovery: Helps police identify and return stolen property to its rightful owner, even if serial numbers are removed.
| Feature | Description | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Invisible | Cannot be seen under normal light | Criminals unaware they are marked |
| Unique Code | Distinct forensic signature for each user/location | Irrefutable link to source |
| Persistent | Difficult to remove from surfaces and skin | Remains detectable for forensic analysis |
| Forensically Linked | Traceable back to the registered owner/premises | Helps identify criminals and recover property |
Essentially, SmartWater provides an invisible link between a crime, the criminal, and the victim's property or location, making prosecution more likely and recovery easier.
