How to Stop RFID

Radio Frequency IDentification, or RFID systems, project out a mini broadcast that contains certain information. For instance, U.S. passports now require RFID badges that transmit information about the bearer's identity to certain scanners. If the idea of someone scanning your passport without your permission makes you nervous, there are ways you can keep your RFID-implanted products from unauthorized scans.

Instructions

1. Minimize the number of things you carry with RFID chips on them. If RFID-implanted devices aren't on you, they cannot be scanned. You can also try to get items that don't have RFID inside. For instance, many credit and debit cards now include RFID chips in them to facilitate faster payments at certain pay stations. You can call your credit providers and ask for non RFID-enabled cards to be sent to you.

2. Use RFID-blocking apparel such as RFID-blocking wallets. The materials inside the apparel are designed to prevent any RFID scanners from being able to access the contents within, which keeps you and your information safe from any hackers or malicious users out to steal your information.

3. Use an RFID shield sleeve for a badge or pass. This is ideal if you don't want to spend money on a new wallet or if you have something that won't fit well in a pocket, such as an employee badge. Most sleeves are designed to accommodate one item per sleeve, ideal if you only need one thing to be shielded from RFID scanners.

Tips & Warnings

• Maintain common sense. If something involving RFID seems shady, stay away from it.

• Do not attempt to forcibly remove the RFID chip from a device, as it may damage said device.

References

• Spychips: What is RFID

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Rogue Wallet: RFID Wallets and Sleeves
• Difrware: RFID Blocking apparel
• ID Stronghold: RFID blocking gear