microdotting

Microdotting is a form of covert communication and identification that involves the use of extremely small dots, typically applied to clothing, accessories, or other personal items. These dots are often placed in discreet locations, such as under clothing seams, on the underside of shoes, or in hidden pockets, and are designed to be imperceptible to the naked eye. The technique relies on specialized equipment, including high-resolution cameras and microscopes, to read the dots from a distance or in low-light conditions.

The practice originated in military and law enforcement contexts, where it was used for covert identification of personnel or marking of equipment without drawing attention. Over time, microdotting has been adopted in various fields, including espionage, counter-surveillance, and even civilian applications such as anti-theft tracking. The dots themselves may encode alphanumeric or symbolic information, which can be decoded using specialized software or optical scanners.

Microdotting requires precise application techniques to ensure the dots remain undetectable under normal conditions. Factors such as lighting, angle, and magnification play a critical role in both applying and reading the dots. While the technology is highly effective for covert purposes, it also raises ethical and privacy concerns, particularly when used without consent or in unauthorized contexts. Due to its specialized nature, microdotting is generally limited to trained professionals and organizations with access to the necessary tools and expertise.