A digital camera includes an image capturing assembly for capturing an
image and generating image data. Processing circuitry is connected to the
image capturing assembly for receiving the image data, processing the
image data and generating print data. A printer is connected to the
processing circuitry to receive the print data, the printer being
connectable to a consumable print roll to be validated, such that the
processing circuitry is capable of communicating with the print roll. An
authentication chip is connected to the processing circuitry and is
configured to incorporate a random function that generates a random
number when called by the processing circuitry and to apply a one-way
function to the random number to generate a first value that is passed to
the processing circuitry. The processing circuitry is configured to call
a one-way function from the print roll that is configured to apply that
function to the random number and to return a second value to the
processing circuitry. The processing circuitry is further configured to
compare the first and second values, thereby verifying the authenticity
of the print roll.