Credit cards contain sensitive financial information that needs to be protected from unauthorized access. To prevent fraud, credit cards are made with special materials that block radio frequency identification (RFID) scanners from reading the card details wirelessly. This provides an extra layer of security when paying with a credit card in public.
How do RFID scanners work?
RFID scanners work by sending out electromagnetic waves that energize an RFID tag or chip on a card when placed within range. The RFID tag contains stored data, like credit card numbers, and transmits this data back to the RFID reader through radio waves. This allows information to be read from RFID enabled cards from distances of up to several feet away without needing physical contact or swiping.
What data is contained on credit cards?
The black magnetic stripe on the back of credit cards contains sensitive financial data. This includes the full credit card number, expiration date, and CVV security code. RFID chips also contain similar information. Identity thieves using RFID scanning devices could potentially steal this private data without the card owner’s knowledge.
Why is RFID scanning a security risk?
RFID scanning poses a risk because credit card data can be read wirelessly from cards in people’s wallets and purses from short distances away. Criminals can use RFID readers to steal financial information from customers in crowded areas like shopping malls, transit stations, concerts, etc. Contactless payments cards are especially vulnerable because the RFID chip is exposed.
How are credit cards protected from RFID scanning?
To prevent unauthorized RFID scanning, credit cards contain special materials in their construction that block radio signals. Tiny metal fibers and foil sheets disrupt and reflect the electromagnetic waves coming from RFID readers. This stops the readers from establishing a connection with the card’s RFID tag and reading data.
Blocker cards
Many credit cards now come equipped with RFID blocking technology. Tiny thin metal meshes are embedded in the cards that interfere with scanning signals. All major card providers like Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover use RFID blocker cards to protect against fraud.
Sleeves and wallets
There are also external RFID blocking sleeves and wallets that can provide scanning protection. These contain metallic fabric linings that cards can be stored inside to prevent data theft. Some wallets are shielded on one side to block scanners while still allowing contactless payments.
Signal blocking pouches
Aluminum lined pouches and bags are very effective at blocking RFID signals from penetrating. Placing credit cards inside a signal blocking pouch when traveling or in crowded spaces can provide extra security against scans. The foil lining completely blocks radio waves in any direction.
How effective is RFID blocking technology?
Independent testing shows that RFID blocking technology is very effective at preventing unauthorized scans. When RFID blocker cards or sleeves are used correctly, RFID readers are unable to read any usable data. The metal linings block 100% of radio waves which renders scanners useless.
Independent lab tests
University labs have tested commercially available RFID blocking technology to verify its effectiveness. In all cases, RFID readers were unable to scan any credit card information when RFID blocker cards or sleeves were used. The small metal fibers were more than sufficient to disrupt RFID signals.
Consumer Reports
According to Consumer Reports testing, RFID blocking wallets and passport cases prevented RFID readers from scanning ID cards and credit cards. Testers noted the products blocked signals when properly used, preventing wireless access to personal data.
Mythbusters RFID episode
On the Discovery Channel program Mythbusters, hosts Adam Savage and Jamie Hyneman tested whether RFID blocking products really work. They confirmed that RFID blocking sleeves and wallets successfully blocked readers from scanning RFID enabled credit cards and passports.
Do credit cards need both RFID and magnetic stripes?
Credit cards contain both RFID chips and magnetic stripes because each technology has advantages in different situations:
Magnetic stripes
Magnetic stripes can be read by standard card readers at checkout counters with physical swiping. The magnetic technology is inexpensive and works universally with the global credit card payment infrastructure.
RFID chips
The embedded RFID chips enable contactless tap-and-go payments which is faster and more convenient. RFID also supports new innovations like mobile payments through virtual wallets. But without magnetic stripes, cards would not be backwards compatible.
Dual technology
By including both magnetic and RFID technologies, credit cards can work everywhere. The magnetic stripe provides backwards compatibility while the RFID chip offers advanced functionality. Both technologies have merits, so cards include both for maximum usability.
Are metal credit cards more secure?
Metal credit cards have increased security because the all-metal construction serves as a shield that blocks RFID scanning attempts:
Blocks RFID signals
The metal material in metal card construction completely blocks incoming RFID reader signals. This prevents contactless data theft by shielding the card’s RFID chip from being scanned wirelessly.
Stops wireless access
Since metal cards fully block RFID, they offer reliable scanning protection that plastic bank cards lack. Sensitive card data cannot be read wirelessly even with powerful long range RFID reader devices.
Extra anti-tampering
Metal cards are also more secure because they prevent physical tampering like skimming devices. The rigid metal material makes it much harder to install skimmers compared to flimsy plastic cards.
However, metal cards cost significantly more to manufacture which limits their availability. But for those wanting maximum RFID protection, metal cards are the most secure option. The intrinsic RFID shielding of metal construction offers robust scanning prevention well beyond plastic cards.
Should people be concerned about RFID scanning?
While RFID scanning presents a risk, there are steps people can take to minimize the chances of card data theft:
Use RFID blocking cards
By using credit cards with built-in RFID blocking technology, the risk of scanning can be greatly reduced. RFID blocking cards are now common from major card issuers.
Carry cards in RFID blocking holders
If unsure whether your cards have RFID blocking, keep them in an external blocking wallet or sleeve when out in public. RFID blocking holders provide an additional safeguard.
Limit unnecessary cards
Reduce the number of RFID cards carried to essentials only. The less cards with RFID chips in your wallet or purse, the lower the scanning risk.
Monitor statements for fraud
Check card statements and online accounts regularly for suspicious charges. This allows quick response if any financial data is stolen through scanning. Enrolling in credit monitoring services can also help detect issues early.
Shield pocket contents
Foil lined pockets or bags add a layer of RFID protection when carrying essential cards in sensitive locations. The foil blocks exterior scanning attempts.
Are new credit card technologies more secure?
Payment card providers continue innovating new technologies focused on enhanced security:
Biometrics
Biometric credit cards authenticate cardholders using fingerprints instead of signatures or pins. This prevents unauthorized use and reduces theft.
Dynamic CVV codes
Cards with changing CVV codes deter fraud by refreshing the 3-digit code regularly. This prevents criminals from making multiple illegal purchases with a stolen code.
Enhanced EMV chips
Upgraded EMV chips generate unique transaction data that cannot be used for other purchases. This better secures chip-based in-person payments using blockchain-like technology.
Digital account numbers
Virtual card numbers allow online or mobile purchases without exposing the actual credit card details. This protects the real account number from merchant database hacks.
Cryptograms
Payment cryptograms replace sensitive data with encrypted tokens during transactions. This keeps card numbers private even on the back-end payment networks.
Conclusion
RFID blocking is essential technology that protects credit cards and consumer data from wireless theft. While new innovations aim to enhance security further, RFID blocking remains the first line of defense against contactless credit card fraud. Carrying cards in RFID blocking holders and using RFID blocking sleeves can effectively disable RFID scanners that try to illegally access financial information. With proper RFID precautions, consumers can safely use credit cards without worrying about data theft.