Authenticated barcode pattern

A method comprising:

• causing, by a smart device, a security feature to become visible by auto-focusing a lens of a camera of the smart device using a focusing target embedded in the security feature;
• while the security feature is visible from the lens of the camera, obtaining image data of a product code associated with a particular item, wherein the product code comprises a pattern printed as a barcode and a background pattern that contains both of the security feature and the focusing target, and wherein the security feature is distorted by a reproduction of the product code and the security feature is located within the barcode;
• determining, by the smart device, based on the security feature, whether the product code is authentic or unauthentic;
• and
• if the product code is unauthentic, displaying, via a user interface of the smart device, an indication of unauthenticity;
• or
• (ii) if the product code is authentic, proceeding, by the smart device, with a transaction for the particular item.

A non-transitory computer-readable medium, having stored thereon program instructions that, upon execution by a smart device, cause the smart device to perform a set of operations comprising:

• causing a security feature to become visible by auto-focusing a lens of a camera of the smart device using a focusing target embedded in the security feature;
• while the security feature is visible from the lens of the camera, obtaining image data of a product code associated with a particular item, wherein the product code comprises a pattern printed as a barcode and a background pattern that contains both of the security feature and the focusing target, wherein the security feature is distorted by a reproduction of the product code and the security feature is located within the barcode;
• determining, based on the security feature, whether the product code is authentic or unauthentic;
• and
• (i) if the product code is unauthentic, displaying an indication of unauthenticity;
• or
• (ii) if the product code is authentic, proceeding with a transaction for the particular item.