tampering

Tampering refers to the unauthorized alteration, manipulation, or disruption of a product, device, document, or system with the intent to deceive, damage, or gain an improper advantage. It undermines safety, reliability, or integrity and may occur in physical, digital, or informational contexts.

Common domains include product tampering (altered packaging or contents), evidence tampering (altering or concealing material relevant to an investigation), and electronic or data tampering (unauthorized modification of software, databases, or communications). Tampering with records or ballots also has legal and electoral implications, while industrial tampering can affect critical infrastructure such as water treatment or energy facilities.

Motivations range from fraud and malice to political influence, extortion, or sabotage. Consequences include health risks, financial losses, damaged trust, legal liability, regulatory action, and criminal penalties. In many jurisdictions, tampering is a crime regardless of outcome, with harsher penalties when it involves critical infrastructure or official records.

Prevention combines physical and digital controls: tamper-evident packaging and seals; chain of custody and audits for assets; access controls, authentication, and encryption for information systems; secure development practices; monitoring and incident response; and procedures for recall or remediation. Effective detection depends on routine verification and rapid reporting.