An apparatus is configured to manage N data records for N associated seals from products. The apparatus includes a reception unit configured to receive a challenge message, sent by a capture appliance, with a code associated with one of the N seals. There is a checking unit configured to check the received code for validity and for a first breakage of the seal associated with the received code on the basis of the data record associated with the associated seal. A transmission unit is configured to send a response message, generated on the basis of the check, with a piece of status information pertaining to the first breakage of the seal associated with the received code to the capture appliance.