Systems and methods for providing a security tag with a telescoping actuator and/or adjustable range of insert space sizes

A method for operating a tag, comprising:

• actuating an extending actuator of the tag to transition a pin from an unengaged position in which the pin is retracted into a first portion of a housing of the tag to an engaged position in which the pin extends through an insert space and into a second portion of the housing;
• mechanically securing the pin in the engaged position using a securement mechanism disposed in the housing;
• and
• providing an indication of a state of a mechanical securement of the pin;
• wherein the indication of the state of the mechanical securement is provided by causing a post to fill an aperture formed in the extending actuator of the tag when the pin is in the engaged position and not in the unengaged position;
• wherein the pin is securely coupled to a movable component of the extending actuator so as to be integrated into the housing;
• wherein the first portion and the second portion of the housing are coupled to each other so as to form a unitary piece;
• and
• wherein a size of the insert space is selectively adjusted by moving at least a part of the first portion of the housing relative to the second portion of the housing.