Target security tags are designed to prevent theft, but they can sometimes be accidentally left on items after purchase.
If you find yourself with a Target security tag still attached to your item, there are a few things you can do to remove it.
We will explain the steps in this article. Read more!
Table of contents
- What is a Target security tag?
- What are the Different types of Target security tags?
- How do Target security tags work?
- How to remove a Target security tag using a screwdriver
- How to remove a Target security tag using pliers
- How to remove a Target security tag using a magnet
- How to remove target security tag without magnet
- How to remove a Target security tag with scissors
- How to remove target security tag from clothes
- FAQs on how to remove target security tag
- Conclusion
- References
- Discover More
What is a Target security tag?
A Target security tag is a small, plastic device that is attached to items in the store to prevent theft.
The tags are attached to clothing and other items that are easy to steal.
When the item is purchased, the cashier uses a special tool to deactivate the security tag.
There are two types of Target security tags:
Hard tags: Hard tags are the most common type of Target security tag. They are attached to clothing and other items that are high in value or that are at risk of theft.
Hard tags can only be removed by a cashier or with a special tool.
Soft tags: Soft tags are not common like hard tags. They are attached to less expensive items or to items that are not at risk of theft.
Soft tags can be removed by the customer at home using a variety of methods.
Target security tags work by using radio frequency identification (RFID) technology. Each tag has a unique RFID chip that emits a signal.
When the item is passed through the security gates at the store, the RFID signal is detected and the gates open.
If the security tag has not been deactivated, the RFID chip will continue to emit a signal and the security gates will alarm.
How to remove a Target security tag using a screwdriver
To remove a Target security tag using a screwdriver, you will need a small, flathead screwdriver.
- Place the item on a flat surface.
- Locate the security tag. It is usually located on the seam of the garment or on the packaging of the item.
- Insert the screwdriver into the small opening on the side of the security tag.
- Twist the screwdriver to break the seal on the security tag.
- Remove the screwdriver and pull the security tag apart.
How to remove a Target security tag using pliers
To remove a Target security tag using pliers, you will need a pair of needle-nose pliers.
- Place the item on a flat surface.
- Locate the security tag. It is usually located on the seam of the garment or on the packaging of the item.
- Use the pliers to grasp the two sides of the security tag.
- Gently bend the security tag back and forth until it breaks apart.
How to remove a Target security tag using a magnet
To remove a Target security tag using a magnet, you will need a strong magnet.
- Place the item on a flat surface.
- Locate the security tag. It is usually located on the seam of the garment or on the packaging of the item.
- Place the magnet on top of the security tag.
- Hold the magnet in place for a few seconds.
- Remove the magnet and the security tag should come apart.
How to remove target security tag without magnet
To remove a security tag without a plier, you will need a needle-nose plier for the removal.
Hold the security tag with the ink cartridge side up.
Hold one of tag sides using a pair of plier.
Using another plier, hold the other side of the tag.
Gently bend each side of the tag downward. Don’t bend it too much to avoid breaking the tag in half and spilling the ink. However, bend till it opens.
how to remove target security tag without screwdriver
How to remove a Target security tag with scissors
To remove a Target security tag with scissors, follow these steps:
- Carefully cut the plastic casing of the tag. Be careful not to damage the product.
- Once the casing is cut, you should be able to remove the tag.
How to remove target security tag from clothes
By rubbing the tag, you can remove security tags from target clothes.
First, use your fingers to repeatedly remove the tag away from the clothing. Repeat this procedure ten or more times until the pin begins to loosen.
Then look for a large nail. The nail should be larger than the tag and have a head at least as wide as a cent.
The clothes tag should be removed. Keep the lengthy plastic portion of the tag aside.
Press down on the ink cartridge until it pops up to be opened. To open the ink cartridge, continuously hit it with force.
However, if you hit it forcefully, the tag will pop open. Alternatively, you can accomplish this by applying an electromagnet.
In contrast, a lot of modern tags are electromagnet-only, and if you split one open, you’ll see that there is no ink inside.
Put something between the tag and the pin head to give it some room to move in order to remove the tag. After that, bend the pin back and forth to break it.
Pull the tag straight back after that, letting the pin come out of the hole it was inserted into. The tag can now be cut open.
FAQs on how to remove target security tag
Target security tags are typically small, plastic devices with a metal pin or wire. They are usually attached to the seam of a garment or to the packaging of an item.
If you can’t remove the security tag yourself, you can take the item back to Target and have them remove it for you. You will need to bring your receipt with you.
Yes, it is possible to damage your item when removing the security tag
Conclusion
There are a few different ways to remove a Target security tag. The method that you choose will depend on the type of tag and the tools that you have available. If you are not sure how to remove the tag, you can always ask a Target employee for help.
References
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