November 26, 2007
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Have you received one of the new "wireless" credit cards? These new credit cards are supposed to help speed you through the check-out stand saving you the countless milliseconds that you would have lost when handing over your old-fashioned credit card to be swiped. These ultra high-tech cards also save you the extra five seconds you would have wasted pulling out a $20 and handing it to the cashier.
I know, I know, all those seconds add up to a minute or two per day and just think what you could do with that! Seriously though, these cards are just the latest product using RFID (radio frequency identification). So it's not the credit cards per se that are the issue, but rather the RFID technology they use.
Unless you have been living under a rock you've surely heard about the privacy and security pitfalls of RFID. Despite assurances of encryption and safety from card issuers, privacy advocates have their doubts.
There have been several reports describing how easy it is for a thief to get their hands on some electronic equipment that literally pulls your data right out of the air.
Further, your data is not just available when you are making a transaction. With RFID, your data is constantly being broadcast. Think of it as a 24-hr coffee shop - always open.
This means your data can be stolen whenever and wherever you carry your card. Essentially, you are being "wirelessly" pick-pocketed!
So what can you do? Well, you've got a couple of choices. One, you can refuse to carry the card and just stay with the old-fashioned magnetic strip cards. Two, you can carry the new card but secure it with a signal-blocking cover or sleeve. You can buy one (check on-line) or you can make yourself a homemade version by simply covering the card in tin foil - the kind found in your kitchen!
Until next time...
Elia, Executive Editor, The ITPME Ezine -
Keeping your most effective security tool - You - up to date.
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