What Are Anti-Tamper Screws - Tamper Proof Security Screw Types, Uses, Removal and More

Security screws play a crucial role in enhancing security across various applications. These specialized fasteners are designed to prevent unauthorized removal or tampering, making them essential for securing items and structures in both public and private settings. This article delves into anti-tamper security screws, their types, applications, and methods for removal.

What Are Anti-Tamper Screws?

Security screws, also known as anti-tamper, anti-theft or tamper-proof screws, are specialized fasteners designed to prevent unauthorized removal or tampering. They are essential for securing objects or sections together, as they can pass through various materials such as wood, plastic, and metal. Anti-tamper screws are particularly important for fastening items like doors, chairs, windows, and other fixtures where standard nails are not suitable. They feature unique heads that are incompatible with standard screwdrivers, requiring specialized tools for installation and removal. They are made from steel with a zinc coating, offering durability and resistance to pressure or wear. Commonly used in public areas and for high-security applications, such as mobile phone internals, gutters, license plates, and public facilities, security screws deter vandalism, theft, and casual interference. They come in various levels of tamper-proofing, from those that deter casual tampering to others that are nearly impossible to remove without the correct driver, making them ideal for permanent fixtures where maintenance is not required.

What Are Security Screws Used For?

In public areas, security screws are used to deter casual tampering, such as in bathroom stalls, license plates, public benches, school tables, lamp posts, etc.
In the automotive industry, tamper-proof screws and fasteners are used in critical safety devices like seatbelts and airbags, as well as in engines and transmissions, to prevent unauthorized maintenance that could compromise vehicle safety. They can also prevent owners from carrying out their own maintenance, to ensure that only the contracted manufacturer or specialized third party can perform maintenance on complex modern vehicles.
In aerospace, manufacturers use anti-tamper screws to secure components on rockets and jet fighters, ensuring only highly skilled workers with specialized tools can access sensitive areas, protecting the lives of pilots and passengers.
Colleges and universities commonly use tamper-proof screws on furniture and electronic devices to deter theft, vandalism, and misappropriation by both students and external threats.
Hospitals and medical facilities use these fasteners to secure expensive and sensitive medical equipment, preventing tampering that could jeopardize patient safety and the functionality of critical devices.
Correctional facilities employ tamper-proof screws to prevent inmates from damaging or removing equipment, safeguarding against costly repairs and potential security breaches.
Other industries with tight security requirements and sensitive information use more expensive measures and will use security screws to protect their assets from sabotage or unlawful entry, such as in autonomous technologies like LiDAR, robots, aerial drones, and public transportation.

Tamper Proof vs Tamper Resistant Screws

Tamper-proof and tamper-resistant are not the same thing. Tamper-resistant screws are designed to be difficult to remove, typically requiring specialized tools that the average person is unlikely to have on hand, which deters opportunistic theft. However, someone determined to remove them can still do so with some effort. In contrast, tamper-proof screws are engineered to be nearly impossible to remove without the proper tool, often necessitating more extreme measures like drilling or cutting. Essentially, tamper-proof screws provide a higher level of security than tamper-resistant screws, making them suitable for situations where greater protection is needed.

Types of Security Screws

1. Torx Screws (Star Drive/Star Head Screws)
Invented in 1967, the Torx screw, also known as a star drive or star head screw, is recognized by its six-pointed star-shaped recess. Its design offers superior grip and leverage compared to traditional slotted or Phillips screws, significantly reducing cam-out during installation and removal. Torx screws are widely used in various applications, including automotive engines, bicycle braking systems, and electronic casing. Sizes range from tiny T1 screws to large T100 screws (22mm). Common sizes include T10 (2.74mm), T15 (3.27mm), and T25 (4.43mm). Some Torx screws feature a central pin for added security, requiring a specialized Torx driver with a corresponding hole.

These are a variation of standard Torx screws that incorporate a small pin in the center of the recess. This added security feature requires a specialized driver with a hole to accommodate the pin. This prevents standard Torx drivers from being used. They are commonly found in applications where increased tamper resistance is needed.

2. One-Way Screws (One-Direction/Irreversible Screws)
The one-way screw is designed for permanent installations. Their heads allow for tightening with a standard screwdriver but prevent loosening due to a sloped or curved section. Removal typically requires destructive methods like gripping with pliers or using specialized extraction tools, which can be difficult to find.

3. Spanner Screws (Snake Eye/Pig Nose Screws)
Spanner screws, also commonly known as snake eye screws, are easily identified by the two holes in their heads. They require a specialized spanner bit with two prongs that fit into the holes. Common applications include license plates, grills, and public facilities.

4. Button Head Screws
These screws have a low-profile, rounded head with a small central indentation. Due to their small drive size, they are susceptible to damage from excessive torque. They are often used in sensitive applications where larger screws might cause damage. Threadlock can be used to enhance their resistance to loosening.

5. Countersunk Screws (Flat Head Screws)
Designed to sit flush with the surface material, countersunk screws, also known as flat head screws, can be concealed with screw caps or other coverings, making them difficult to access and remove.

6. Flanged Button Head Screws
These screws combine the rounded button head with a protruding flange or collar. The larger head and flange allow for higher torque application, making them suitable for more robust applications. The head typically features multiple indentations for engagement with a specialized driver.

7. Hex Socket Cap Screws
These screws are designed for use with spanners or hex wrenches. They are available with solid hexagonal heads or rounded, threaded heads.

8. Pan Head Screws
Pan head screws have a flat head with rounded sides and a small, typically four-point, indentation. They are commonly used as secure fixings in machinery.

9. Pin Hex Screws
Similar to standard hex socket cap screws that have a hexagonal recess and are fixed using a hex bit or allen key, but with a pin inserted in the middle for added security. This type of security screw needs a specialized tool to fix or remove them.

10. Sentinel and Clutch Head Screws
These are permanent anti-tamper screws that come with a unique drive design, which makes them can only be turned in one direction. They can be installed with standard drivers (Phillips or slotted) but cannot be removed conventionally.

How to Remove Security Screws without Special Tools?

Identify the Screw Type
Regular Screw vs. Security Screw: Regular socket head screws allow a standard Allen wrench to fit in easily. Security screws, however, have a protrusion in the center that prevents a regular wrench from engaging.
Prepare Your Tools
Flathead Screwdriver: Ensure you have a flathead screwdriver that fits snugly against the protrusion of the security screw. The size is crucial to prevent slipping.
Position the Screwdriver
Insert the flathead screwdriver into the slot created by the protrusion. Ensure it is wedged firmly against the screw to provide leverage.
Apply Pressure
Firmly press the screwdriver into the slot to ensure it does not slip out as you turn it. This pressure will help you grip the screw effectively.
Turn the Screw
Slowly rotate the screwdriver counterclockwise. Apply consistent pressure while turning to loosen the screw. If it doesn’t budge, check that you’re using the correct screwdriver size.
Remove the Screw
Once loosened, you should be able to remove the screw completely by continuing to turn it or using your fingers.
Repeat if Necessary
If there are multiple security screws, repeat the process for each one.

If you’re working on delicate equipment or appliances, take care to avoid damaging surrounding components. If you plan to dismantle the device further, consider wearing gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from sharp edges.

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What Are Anti-Tamper Screws – Tamper Proof Security Screw Types, Uses, Removal and More