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Avoiding Personal Identity Theft with a RFID wallet

Avoiding Personal Identity Theft with a RFID wallet

Being the victim or fraud or identity theft can be frustrating and somewhat traumatic. Discovering that your identity has been stolen and used to commit a crime is something that no-one wants to add to their list of life experiences.

With the advancement of technology, we have made it easier than ever before for criminals to access our sensitive personal information. RFID chips are an example of modern technology that has tremendous benefits but exposes us to serious personal identity security risks.

What is RFID Technology?

RFID technology was created in the sixties and popularized in the nineties. Today RFID chips are everywhere. Embedded in pets to prove ownership, products to guarantee authenticity and even in passports and bank cards.

These chips store our personal data on tiny bits of silicone that are attached to transmitters. The chips can be read by scanners that pick up the encoded information. The chips can store any kind of information, from PIN numbers and biographical information, to access codes and security passwords.

Where is RFID Technology Used?

RFID technology is used in a myriad of industries and applications. Some examples of uses for RFID technology are;

  • Bank cards – the chip in your card contains the data to access your account.
  • Pet identification – The original application for RFID that made it famous.
  • Military and medical ID bracelets – Valuable medical records of key personnel stored in chips and easily accessed by medical staff when the soldier is unconscious.
  • Access control bangles – Used to provide hassle free access to buildings and secure areas.
  • Passports – Storing your biographical information that is presented to the immigration agent for inspection.
  • Logistics – Tracking the production, shipping, storage, and delivery of goods all throughout the supply chain.

The Benefits and Drawbacks of RFID

RFID has revolutionized the way data is stored and transported. RFID has helped streamline business practices and improve business operations. However, it does have a few drawbacks. Criminals have discovered the advancement of technology and incorporated it into their scamming strategies.

To gain access to the sensitive data stored on the RFID chip, all a criminal needs to do is stand next to you in a line at a coffee shop. Unbeknownst to you, their hidden RFID scanner will be able to collect the data from any RFID chips you may be carrying on your person. This data can then be downloaded at a later stage and used to commit fraud and various other crimes in your name.

How do I Protect Myself from Criminals?

Protecting yourself against an unseen threat such as data theft and personal identity fraud may seem challenging. How do you protect yourself against an unseen criminal element? However, there is a way that you can mitigate your risk and make sure that you never get caught out by scammers and fraudsters.

The RFID Wallet

A RFID wallet such as the one offered at Ibricraft.com is used to protect your RFID chips data from prying eyes of criminals and their scanners. The wallet contains a strip of aluminum woven into the lining of the wallet.

This thin aluminum strip interrupts the frequency of RFID scanners used by criminals, keeping your data protected. The wallet still has the look and feel of a luxury accessory, while providing vital security function that keeps criminals away and minimizes your risk of identity theft.

Never be Caught Out

Technology is accelerating into the future and so are the strategies of fraudsters and criminals. Don’t become a victim, keep your data protected against fraud and identity theft with a RFID wallet.

Photo by CafeCredit under CC 2.0

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    UrbanGeekz Staff
    UrbanGeekz Staff
    UrbanGeekz is the first to market tech blog focused on covering content from a diverse and multicultural perspective. The groundbreaking videocentric multimedia platform covers technology, business, science, and startups.
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