Hiscox is here to help protect the things that matter to you
Dear Valued Hiscox Customer,
At Hiscox, we understand how important your equipment is to your business. Which is why we’re providing you with a complimentary, advanced forensic coding system.
Hiscox DNA+ combines an adhesive solution with uniquely coded microparticles, pre-registered in a national database – exclusively to you. This system provides irrefutable, traceable evidence of ownership.
When used correctly, DNA+ is proven to be a powerful deterrent to thieves with the additional benefit of making it easier for lost possessions to be traced back to you
The solution is designed to be quick and easy for you to apply, but please take a few moments to read this guide.
It is important to apply/display the enclosed warning labels as soon as possible – we deal with hundreds of claims and unfortunately, too many of them relate to equipment theft.
Protect your equipment today – with Hiscox DNA+ advanced forensic coding.
How it works
No two Hiscox DNA+ kits are the same. Your kit is uniquely linked to you. Any item of your equipment you apply it to also becomes linked to you.
Your Hiscox DNA+ kit is specially formulated for applying to small, valuable equipment like your camers, light meters, flash units, lnses, etc. It can also be applied to larger items such as lights, tripods and the like.
Each dispenser contains the Hiscox DNA+ solution plus microparticles incorporating your unique code. The solution is a water-based adhesive that goes on white, but dries clear. It is extremely difficult to remove once dry.
You only need to apply a tiny dab.
DNA+ appears under ultraviolet light (also known as black light) making it easy for law enforcement to detect.
Applying Hiscox DNA+ is quick and simple, but care should be taken to avoid optics, moving parts, hinges, vents, dials etc. If in doubt, test on a sheet of paper or metal surface until you’re comfortable applying DNA+.
IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTICE: Please keep Hiscox DNA+ out of the reach of children and animals. Hiscox DNA+ micro particles are suspended in a water-based forensic adhesive and although not toxic, care should be taken not to drink or allow it to enter the eyes. In the event of contact with eyes they should be flushed with clean water. Some sensitive skin types may be irritated by contact with the adhesive. In the event of contact wash with soap and water.
Liability for bodily injury or damage to property will not be accepted if these application guidelines are not followed correctly.
Apply Warning labels first
You should first apply small warning labels (included in this kit) to items you intend to apply Hiscox DNA+ to. You should also apply the large warning labels to equipment cases and large items where they can be easily seen.
Where should I apply Hiscox DNA+?
Choose discreet locations, for example the underside of camera bodies, inside battery compartment lid, behind folding screens, etc.
On larger items, apply in hidden locations and flat areas that are not subject to wear and tear.
It’s worth reiterating, do not apply to moving parts, optics, buttons, hinges etc. Remember, DNA+ is an adhesive solution and can clog mechanical parts, so avoid.
How should I apply Hiscox DNA+?
Ensure all surfaces to be coded are clean, dry and free from grease, oil or dirt.
Shake the dispenser thoroughly for about 30 seconds to ensure that the microparticles are evenly distributed throughout the solution.
Unscrew the cap, then dab the brush on the surface to be coded. Gently rotate the brush between your fingers to be sure to pick up some of the particles.
Where possible, apply Hiscox DNA+ to a number of areas on a single item.
When complete, replace the cap securely.
Deters
The greatest worry for any potential thief is being caught by law enforcement.
When thieves see that your equipment is forensically protected they are more likely to pick an easier target where there is less risk of being caught.
Detects
Hiscox DNA+ is easy for law enforcement to detect; they use ultraviolet light at crime scenes and on recovered assets to look for fingerprints and other forensics.
Any item forensically coded with DNA+ is connected to its owner. DNA+ evidence makes it easier for law enforcement to return lost or stolen assets and secure convictions.
Protects
We want to protect you from the pain and frustration that can be caused by the theft of your equipment. DNA+ will help protect your business from interruptions caused by theft and loss of the equipment that you need to deliver your services.
A few things to avoid
- Don’t dilute the solution and use within two weeks of initial opening.
- Don’t apply DNA+ to moving parts, optics, buttons, hinges, dials etc.
- Don’t store or use DNA+ in extreme hot or cold temperatures.
- Don’t write or scrub with the solution; a dab is all that is required.
- If you get Hiscox DNA+ on any surfaces by mistake, wipe immediately with a damp cloth before it dries.