DNA marking is a type of
forensic identification. It is a method to mark items in a way that is undetectable to the naked eye. A unique
DNA marker is applied to the item, and can be recovered to identify the item. In suspected thefts, the suspect can also be tested for traces of the DNA marking.
DNA marking can be used to prevent thefts of objects that are hard to mark in any other way (e.g.
copper cables).
It can also be used to help separate between genuine and
counterfeit
To counterfeit means to imitate something authentic, with the intent to steal, destroy, or replace the original, for use in illegal transactions, or otherwise to deceive individuals into believing that the fake is of equal or greater value tha ...
electronics and other replacement parts.
[{{cite web , url=http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/plant-dna-markers-help-the-pentagon-detect-counterfeit-electronics-in-the-military-supply-chain/article/2536616 , title=Plant DNA markers help the Pentagon detect counterfeit electronics in the military supply chain , publisher=The Washington Examiner , date=4 October 2013 , accessdate=25 August 2015 , author=Mak, Tim]
References
DNA
Crime prevention