Frequently Asked Questions
8. What happens if an item is stolen?
1. What is TM?
How does TM work?
TM is a clear liquid solution, each bottle containing a unique combination of micro-particles.
Each mark made by the TM solution comprises of a variable number of proprietary microparticles. Each microparticle is made up of a variable number of layers. And each layer will vary among a proprietary set of colors. Because our microparticles are as small as 5 microns (a human hair is approximately 80 microns), you can’t see it with the naked eye. This means that a potential thief doesn’t even know that you are protecting your valuables.
By varying the number of microparticles, their number of layers, and the colors, and using our patented encryption algorithms, each mark is designed to create a unique numeric code, a StealthCode™, which is licensed to a customer for their exclusive use.
Finally, because the encrypted microparticles are dispersed in a way which creates a random pattern when the mark is physically applied to an item, we can capture the characteristics of how the encrypted microparticles are dispersed in an “expression matrix.” And with the combination of the encrypted code and the expression matrix, we produce a mark which is as unique to each item as a fingerprint is to each human – a StealthPrint™. With this type of “simple complexity”, a StealthPrint™ is impossible to compromise.
Simply by dabbing a tiny amount of TM onto your possessions, you give them their own coded fingerprint – registered exclusively to you via the TM website.
That ‘fingerprint’ can’t be seen by the naked eye, and is virtually impossible to remove - but police scanners can identify the particles on the spot, helping to reunite stolen items with their rightful owner.
The Police regularly check for TM markings and we actively raise awareness of it, TM is known by criminals to protect property. By displaying TM deterrent stickers on your property, windows and doors you are sending out a powerful warning.
Will it be expensive to mark all of my items?
No, TM is far more affordable and cost effective than competitive technologies such as holograms, DNA strands, or RFID. As only a small amount of TM needs to be applied to each item a large number of items can be protected with a single bottle. A single 5ml TM bottle is enough for over 200 protective marks. For larger items it is advisable to mark at item in a few different places.
Isn’t a UV pen just as effective?
UV pens simply leave a mark on property and as such the property can’t be tracked back to its rightful owner. They are not therefore a secure solution for marking property. Also UV pens need a suitable surface area on which to write your details, such as a postcode, which is not practical for smaller items or jewellery. Also there is nothing to stop a thief from marking over the top of any identifying marks with another UV pen and obscuring the original markings.
How can my property be traced back to me?
Each TM bottle of solution has a unique numeric code, a StealthcodeTM, and this is registered along with your name and address details on the secure ImmobiliseTM database. In the event that any of your valuables are stolen and subsequently recovered by the Police they can check the unique code on your property, on the spot if necessary, and match that unique code with your details on the ImmobiliseTM database.
Are there any restrictions as to what I can protect with TM?
No, TM can be used to mark and protect virtually any personal, household or business item – from sentimental personal items like rings through to TV’s, Cameras, Computers, Consoles, Jewellery, Music Systems, Mobile Phones, Sat Navs, Golf Clubs, Sports Equipment, Work Tools, Garden Equipment. Anything of value
Is TM restricted to use indoors?
No. TM is heat, chemical and crush resistant – the microparticles can even survive explosions and is therefore suitable for products used out of doors. Ensure you carefully read the instructions supplied with your TM solutions for the best results.
Can I use the TM solution on my car or motorcycle?
Yes. Many vehicles are stolen and given different identifies for resale. Vehicle identities are changed by replacing chassis numbers and registration plates, but TM can assist police in identifying a car, car accessories or motorbikes rightful owner.
Say I want to protect my cycle?
In the same way as you would mark a smaller item with TM you can mark larger items by applying the TM property marking solution in a number of covert locations thus ensuring that the property is always registered to you.
2. TM registration
Why do I need to resister my TM?
By registering your TM code and details of property that is marked with your unique TM code on the ImmobiliseTMdatabase you help UK police forces identify your property if it is ever stolen. Loss and theft updates made via the ImmobiliseTM database are immediately made available to police forces nationwide. Also registration alerts the second-hand trade and stolen goods database, as soon as an item goes missing. Finally, you can simplify insurance claims and police reports with proof of ownership.
Do I have to pay an annual membership to keep my registration up to date?
No. By purchasing TM we contribute towards the registration of your code and property details. This means you have no ongoing annual costs unlike other systems and so once you buy TM you are protected forever.
3. Registration Changes
What happens if I move house?
You will be able to change your personal details via your registration details on the ImmobiliseTM site
What happens if I sell an item which I have marked with TM?
You should tell the person who purchases the item that you have marked it with GTM and also remove the item that you have sold from your details on the ImmobiliseTM website.
Will my registration details on ImmobiliseTM expire?
No. Unlike some other products, with TM you do not have to renew your registration every year and pay additional fees. Once you are registered your details remain with ImmobiliseTM until you remove your details. Please refer to the immobiliseTM site for details of their terms and conditions.
4. Discounts
Do you offer a discount for multiple orders?
Yes, it may be that you are a commercial organisation such as a business, large or small, school, charity or similar with a large number of items to protect. Contact sales@stealthmark.co.uk to discuss your requirements.
Can I buy additional TM solutions for items at a second home?
Yes, as each solution has its own unique code and as there are no ongoing registration costs you can register this unique TM code on the ImmobiliseTM database for your second home.
Will I get an insurance discount for using TM?
Some insurers may offer a discount as you have taken steps to assist in the protection and recovery of your property so don’t forget to mention that you use eTM as a discount may be offered.
5. Delivery and Lead Times
How is TM delivered and how long will it take to be delivered?
TM will be dispatched by Royal Mail 1st class service. Credit Card orders will be dispatched within 5-10 working days.
Can I return TM and get a full refund?
Please refer to our Terms and Conditions of sale but If you have made a purchase and changed your mind, we will give you 30 days to assess our products and you can return it in good saleable condition unopened and we will give you your money back for the product. The cost of the return will not be refunded.
6. Usage Questions
How much TM do I need to apply to my property?
A single brush stroke of TM solution in a hidden area of your property should suffice but try to avoid any smooth easily viewed surfaces. For larger items it is best to apply TM to several places on the item. Always carefully read the Instructions supplied.
Can TM withstand routine cleaning?
Yes. TM has been designed to withstand routine cleaning, so you will not need to reapply any solution after cleaning. Please make sure you carefully read the instructions supplied with your TM property marking solution.
Is TM a DNA solution?
No, the TM solution comprises of a variable number of proprietary microparticles. Each microparticle is made up of a variable number of layers. And each layer will vary among a proprietary set of colors. Because our microparticles are as small as 5 microns (a human hair is approximately 80 microns), you can’t see it with the naked eye. This means that a potential thief doesn’t even know that you are protecting your valuables.
By varying the number of microparticles, their number of layers, and the colors, and using our patented encryption algorithms, each mark is designed to create a unique numeric code, a StealthCode™, which is licensed to a customer for their exclusive use.
Finally, because the encrypted microparticles are dispersed in a way which creates a random pattern when the mark is physically applied to an item, we can capture the characteristics of how the encrypted microparticles are dispersed in an “expression matrix.” And with the combination of the encrypted code and the expression matrix, we produce a mark which is as unique to each item as a fingerprint is to each human – a StealthPrint™. With this type of “simple complexity”, a StealthPrint™ is impossible to compromise.
Is TM toxic?
TheTM solution is quite safe to use provided the instructions included with the solution are followed.
When I apply TM will it transfer to my hands and mark me?
No, when TM is applied and dried, it will not transfer to you or any other item.
Can it be used for animals?
No, due to health and safety reasons we do not recommend TM for this purpose.
What is the shelf life of CRIMESTOPPERS PROPERTY PROTECTORTM?
When applied correctly CRIMESTOPPERS PROPERTY PROTECTORTM is permanent and comes with a one year warranty. When TM is in liquid form (i.e. still in the bottle sealed and unopened) the shelf life is over 2 years.
Does the solution wear off after time?
Once an item has been coded with TM and the solution has dried it will harden, making it extremely difficult to remove. Minimal wear may occur on some items in which case you may wish to reapply TM periodically (approximately every few years). You can always check that the TM solution is still on the item using a UV torch. If TM is still present it will glow blue.
Do you know the details of the property I have marked?
No, TM does not need to know which assets you have marked; the ImmobiliseTM database holds this information. ImmobiliseTM is also the only ownership registration service supported by UK Police forces, the Greater London Authority, Transport for London and the Mobile Phone Industry.
7. Deterrent Stickers
Can I buy additional Window Warning Labels or Property Stickers?
As the window and property stickers are an important part of the deterrent to prevent your property being stolen we want to ensure that the supply of labels is carefully controlled. If you do have a need for additional stickers, please contact Customer Services.
If I move house or replace my doors and windows can I have more Warning Labels?
If these circumstances we can provide additional TM Warning Labels. Due to the controlled distribution of these deterrent labels we may ask you to provide details of your purchase of TM or ImmobiliseTM registration or other information we feel is necessary. It is also advisable to remove the warning labels from you old house when moving.
8. What happens if an item is stolen?
What happens if an item is stolen?
If you’ve had the misfortune of having a tagged item stolen, you should first of all contact the police. Let them know that the stolen items were marked with TM, and ask them for a crime number for future reference. Next head to the ImmobiliseTM property register www.immobilise.com and log in using the email address and password you used to register. If you can’t remember your password, don’t worry – simply click the ‘forgotten password?’ link under the log-in box. Once you’ve accessed your account, you’ll see a list of your protected items. Click the ‘lost/stolen’ icon next to the item that’s been stolen, then follow the on-screen prompts
9. Any other questions
I have heard that some people in my area have received free or discounted TM.
What is the reason for this?
Some Local Authorities or Police Organisations as part of community crime reduction initiative provide TM to local residents. If you contact your local police or Safer Neighbourhood Team they may be able to help.
