Tamper Resistant Screws

Both tamper resistant screws and tamper proof screws are types of security screws. Tamper resistant screws are designed to reduce the ease and incidence of vandalism, theft, and tampering. By requiring a specific and hard-to-obtain removal tool, these types of screws become extremely hard to loosen and remove by the average tamperer, theft, or vandal. On the one hand, it would be possible for a tamperer to acquire the special loosening tool in some fashion, but the point is that it’s very unlikely. In fact, by burdening criminals and vandals with an extra step (i.e requiring them to acquire the hard-to-obtain tool), the once “easy opportunity” crime becomes more difficult and time consuming. In situations involving theft and vandalism prevention, the point is to complicate the process and make the criminal activity less convenient or actionable. By doing this, tamper resistant screws supply extra security and reduce the need for repairs on vandalized property or replacement of stolen items.

Tamper proof fasteners are essentially the same thing—they provide added security by requiring unique and special installation and removal tools. A tamper proof fastener, however, generally adds extra levels of security that go beyond simply requiring unique hardware for installation and removal. In fact, many tamper-proof fasteners require proprietary tools (extremely unique installation and removal tools that are manufactured and marketed by one company only). To obtain these particular proprietary tools, the intended buyer must complete documentation outlining intended use for the tools and then submit to the manufacturer or reseller. In other cases, the tamper proof security screws are installed using standard hardware (wrenches), but when tightened enough cause the head to breakaway. This type of fastener (screws with a breakaway head) is often used in prison buildings and to secure street signs to sign posts. This leaves a flat, conical, or round head design that offers your property the most superior protection.

Varieties

Tamper resistant and tamper proof screws are available in a number of different varieties, each with their own design (head, drive, threading, finish etc.). Torx® and TorxPlus® security screws are just two of the many types of tamper resistant and tamper proof security screws. In addition to Torx security screws, tamper resistant screws also come in the following varieties: pin-in-sockets, drilled spanners, one ways, and tamper-resistant masonry and self-drilling screws.