Authentication pedigree scheme for supply chain

In this paper, we present a novel idea of multilayer aggregate authentication scheme that can be used in any distribution phase of supply chain for more accurate tracking of packages and for innovative authentication of the hierarchy of packages. With minimal modification cost, our scheme can be adapted to any existing cryptographic hash chain based authentication schemes such as RFID-based scheme. By allowing the aggregate authentication of multiple layers (for example a bigger package and its smaller inner packages) at once, our scheme provides more reliable and accurate way to track the packages and effectively thwarts the counterfeiters at every phase of the supply chain. Our scheme also enables any entity in the entire supply chain including the producers, transporters, distributors, sellers, and even consumers to easily authenticate the authenticity of a package/product along its packaging hierarchy.