Which of the following is a sign of tampering or substitution on a payment device?

• A. Missing or changed security labels
• B. The device is brand new
• C. The serial number matches the printed label
• D. The device has a label

Answer: (A)

Security labels and tamper-evident seals on payment devices are designed to show if someone has accessed or swapped internal components. If these labels are missing or have been altered, it signals that the device may have been opened, tampered with, or substituted, which could compromise card data or the device’s integrity. A brand-new device could be legitimate and doesn’t by itself indicate tampering. A serial number that matches the printed label suggests consistency, not tampering. Merely having a label on the device is normal and not evidence of tampering. So the clear signal is missing or changed security labels. If you notice that, do not use the device and report it to the appropriate security team.