Do you use an RFID credit card? These are cards or other small items that you can simply wave near a reader to pay for a purchase. You may see them at gas stations or other retailers. While convenience is nice, these payment devices can easily be compromised -- scammers can get the information they need and dip into your account. They don't need to see or touch your card, they simply need to be 'near' you (like 69 feet or so). See how RFID snagging works, and be careful out there.
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I have always declined when offered these kinds of cards. Never knew for sure that theft was possible, but always assumed so based simply on my experience with baby monitors and cordless phones picking up other calls.
I am not saying it is the same technology – just that the experience made me too paranoid to try these kinds of cards.
It’s just too risky to me. Thanks for the post.
“Skimming”…the new identity theft.
You’ve heard of hacking, but do you know what “skimming” is? Wireless identity thieves, called “skimmers”, can steal your RFID information out of your wallet or purse while the cards are still in place. All they need is an antenna hooked up to a PDA in their shirt pocket or a laptop with deciphering software. As the victim walks by, their information can be stolen with the silent sending of an RF pulse, the thief can then replay that pulse and use that information to your detriment. Imagine what can be done with a door pass card, your library card, your driver’s license or your debit or credit card information?! And they never have to go through any of the credit checks to use it!
Many people risk being subject to serious financial and emotional trauma from skimming because they have RFID in their wallets and don’t even know it. With an Armadillo Dollar in your wallet, you can rest easy and have peace of mind that your personal information will be safe and your family’s financial security will be preserved.
Visit http://www.armadillodollar.com for more information about skimming and to get your Armadillo Dollar!