In accordance with one embodiment, apparatus are provided, which include a
digital continuous-tone two-dimensional authentic image and an image
processor. Tamper message data is provided which represents a tamper
message when viewed. Two halftoning screens are provided to be applied to
at least a portion of the continuous-tone two-dimensional authentic
image, to embed the tamper message data within a portion of the authentic
image, in a manner so as to be substantially not visible in a printed or
displayed version of the authentic image absent image processing or
tampering of the authentic image. The screens include a first screen to
apply first elements arranged in a first way, and a second screen to
apply second elements arranged in a second way. A halftoner applies the
two halftoning screens to visibly portray desired information of the
continuous-tone authentic image. The first screen is applied in a limited
area of the authentic image and in a form defined by the tamper message
data. The second screen is applied in an area abutting the limited area.