6 Reasons Why Your RFID Card Stopped Working (2024)

RFID cards are a reliable access entry device when handled properly. These cards have an integrated circuit that is attached to an antenna and then sandwiched between plastic. For communication between electronic devices, these cards use radio frequency identification which is wireless technology. This technology enables a contactless smart RFID card to communicate with a card reader within the ID card industry. The following are reasons you may experience RFID card failure:

1. Exposing the cards to extreme magnetic fields

RFID cards store information on a chip embedded in the card. The chip contains an internal memory and an embedded secure microprocessor. The chip in the card is powered on when the card is brought into the electromagnetic field of the reader. Therefore, extreme magnetic fields can wipe out a chip’s programming rendering it unusable.

2. Breaking the bond between the chip and antenna

An antenna and a chip are embedded in the plastic body of the RFID card. The chip in the card is powered on when the card is brought into the electromagnetic field of the reader. The card and the reader communicate using radio frequencies via their embedded antennae. When one uses the card for reasons other than what it was intended, there can be abnormal wear and tear on the card in the area of the chip. This will break the bond between the chip and the antenna.

3. RFID’s interference

When one magnet comes close to another, it affects the other card’s magnetic field. With RFID cards this interference is common. The card can get demagnetized and the data erased even from something as simple as a fridge door magnet if you keep them close enough for long.

4. Exposing the card to electrostatic discharge (ESD)

RFID cards have an integrated circuit within the plastic which can be wiped out by static electricity which destroys or damages the card’s sensitive electronic components and alters the magnetic media.

5. Physical damage

Physically damaging the RFID card is a common cause of dysfunction. It takes a lot to make the chip in the RFID card stop working but bending, mangling, and cutting the card will do the job. Most RFID cards can survive years of normal wear and tear. Also, extended exposure to salty water can cause your RFID card to stop working.

6. If the card is dirty

The card reader may not be able to process the transaction if enough debris or dirt gets between the RFID card’s chip. Luckily, this is the easiest one to remedy as you can use adhesive tape to pull off offending particles or wipe the card down with a clean cloth. It’s better to keep the card dry and soap-free, therefore, don’t use soap and water.

Conclusion

The RFID card needs to be replaced if any of the above has taken place. Proper handling and storage of the card are critical to its life. RFID cards should be stored in sleeves or cardholders to prevent damaging them.

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6 Reasons Why Your RFID Card Stopped Working (2024)

FAQs

6 Reasons Why Your RFID Card Stopped Working? ›

A: Yes, RFID cards can be influenced by external factors such as strong magnets or electronic devices emitting electromagnetic interference (EMI). This interference can disrupt communication between the RFID card and the reader, leading to unresponsiveness.

What causes an RFID card to stop working? ›

A: Yes, RFID cards can be influenced by external factors such as strong magnets or electronic devices emitting electromagnetic interference (EMI). This interference can disrupt communication between the RFID card and the reader, leading to unresponsiveness.

Why is my RFID not working? ›

Reasons why RFID labels cannot be read

If the chip is subjected to external force or high static electricity, it may be ineffective. The antenna, if the RFID signal receiving antenna is damaged, will also cause failure. Therefore, RFID electronic labels cannot be damaged by compression or tearing.

What is the major problem with RFID? ›

RFID challenges

RFID is prone to two main issues: Reader collision. Reader collision, when a signal from one RFID reader interferes with a second reader, can be prevented by using an anti-collision protocol to make RFID tags take turns transmitting to their appropriate reader. Tag collision.

What messes up RFID? ›

Here are some of the most frequent causes of RFID interference problems: Environmental factors are the most common cause. In the past there were difficulties with tags mounted on metal or on containers of liquids, which interfered with the activation of the tags and resulted in them failing to respond to readers.

What disables RFID? ›

If the tag is an active tag, you can simply remove the battery. Overloading the circuits with electricity will also kill an active tag.

What can damage an RFID card? ›

RFID chips can be destroyed by a variety of factors. Heat, radiation, magnetic fields, and water all pose a threat to the device and should be avoided whenever possible to ensure its longevity.

Do RFID cards go bad? ›

Card deterioration

Most RFID chip cards may last slightly longer than magnetic stripe cards because their terminal insert is less abrasive. RFID-enabled cards can stop working if the card is physically damaged, demagnetized, or exposed to electrostatic discharge (ESD).

How do I reset my RFID card? ›

Access the system's settings and locate the option to reset the RFID access. Follow the prompts carefully. After initiating the reset, verify that the process is successful by testing the access card on the reader. Maintain security during the reset process by limiting access to authorized personnel only.

What stops RFID signals? ›

Any material that can interfere with electromagnetic fields is able to block RFID. The most common materials used in the manufacture of RFID blocking wallets and bags are carbon fiber, aluminum, and leather. In a pinch, you can just wrap your credit card in tinfoil to protect against skimming attacks.

Why RFID failed? ›

There could be many reasons why the reader fails to detect your Touch 'n Go RFID tag. For example, your vehicle may not be parked facing the right direction or your Touch 'n Go RFID tag is faulty.

How to check if RFID is working or not? ›

Using An RFID Scanner: This is the most direct method. First, place your RFID-enabled credit card inside the wallet. Then, bring the wallet close to an RFID scanner. If the scanner fails to pick up a signal from the card, it indicates that your wallet is effectively blocking RFID signals.

What is RFID affected by? ›

UHF RFID tags are strongly affected by objects containing metal or water. If you don't choose the right tag for the object you wish to tag, you may have greatly reduced read range or you may not be able to read the tag at all.

Why do RFID cards stop working? ›

It takes a lot to make the chip in the RFID card stop working but bending, mangling, and cutting the card will do the job. Most RFID cards can survive years of normal wear and tear. Also, extended exposure to salty water can cause your RFID card to stop working.

How do RFID cards get demagnetized? ›

When one magnet comes close to another, it affects the other card's magnetic field. With a mag stripe card, this same principle applies when it comes into contact with other magnetized objects (like credit and debit cards, key chains, etc...) and thus results in the card being demagnetized and the data erased.

Do magnets damage RFID cards? ›

Will strong magnets affect or disable these devices? No. RFID chips send out a radio signal, which is not affected by permanent magnets. While RFID devices can be powered by a changing magnetic field (by electromagnetic induction), they can not be scrambled, erased or blocked with a strong permanent magnet.

Do RFID cards wear out? ›

It takes a lot to make the chip in the RFID card stop working but bending, mangling, and cutting the card will do the job. Most RFID cards can survive years of normal wear and tear. Also, extended exposure to salty water can cause your RFID card to stop working.

How long do RFID cards last? ›

Under controlled environments, they can last virtually forever. However, harsh chemicals, high temperatures, and physical damage can shorten their lifespan. Most vendors estimate a lifespan of 10 years under normal conditions. Active RFID tags: These tags have batteries for powering their own signal.

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