RFID blocking symbol
With the advent of more products that use RFID technology, many people have become concerned about their security. Consequently, there are quite a large number of products on the market that claim to block RFID. Let’s see how RFID blocking works.
The main types ofRFID Blocking
RFID blocking systems reduce the transmitted signal power of the reader, preventing the microchip in the RFID card from working. This ensures RFID card security. Essentially, RFID readers transmit signals which power the microchip in the card, the microchip in the card then powers up and send data back to the reader. This can be prevented by either deflecting/blocking RFID signals, or by transmitting a signal that interferes with the reader but this only works with one frequency and often a certain type of technology.
What are radio frequency identification tags?
Contactless payment cards, ID cards, passports, key cards, and temporary cards all use the same basic technology, Radio Frequencies IDentification is commonly known as RFID. This system uses radio waves to read, transmit, and capture information stored in a tag attached to an object.
- Radio frequency identification tags can be read wirelessly from up to a few feet away.
- RF identification tag does not have to be directly within the reader’s line of sight to be read.
- Radio frequency id tags are now smaller and cheaper to produce. This is why they are now widely used.
Your contactless bank or security card and passport contain a microchip linked to an antenna. The bank cards and passports use a standard set of radio frequencies – 13.56 Mhz. Security passes, keys, product tags typically use 125 kHz as well as 13.56 Mhz.
Most RFID systems are designed to work at short-range, typically a few inches. However, cards can be read at a meter with powerful RFID readers and the real concern is 30+ meters by hackers. Thus, contactless cards are not secure.
Passive and active RFID blocking technology. How RFID blocking works?
Generally, RFID blocking cards, shields, and protectors work in several ways. They are either passive or active. Passive shields or protectors can absorb the RFID signal or deflect it. Active RFID shields or protectors use a microchip. They typically send out an interfering signal. It is effectively pretending to be another card causing a card clash issue in the reader. Or it drains the power from the transmitting signal required to power the chip in your card. If the chip can’t receive enough power to function it can’t transmit a reply.
Deflected or absorbed RFID signals
Passive shielding works in two ways, reflective loss (bounced radio frequency energy) and absorption loss (energy/power absorbed in the shield). Both types reduce the transmitting rf signal that would power the RFID chip.
However, deflecting or absorbing RFID signals for banking cards and contactless payment cards at 13.56 MHz is far simpler than blocking security cards and passes at 125 kHz. 125 kHz requires near field shielding to protect the RFID chip.
Best RFID protection technology
Therefore, to protect contactless cards, it is better to choose solutions that block all types of RFID signals. RFID Cloaked has developed such technology. RFIDsecur RFID blocking fabric will protect both types of cards. It was developed and tested in the UK, with testing undertaken at Plymouth University Brunel department and it is manufactured in the UK.
RFIDsecur RFID blocking fabric is used for the production of RFIDsecur Contactless Blocking Cards. These are superfine cards that can protect all your contactless cards against Bluetooth, Wifi, RFID and NFC, 3 and 4G mobile phone signals. RFID blocking cards protect and secure ID cards and payment cards from being hacked, skimmed, and cloned from the most powerful RFID and NFC readers at frequencies of both 13.56Mhz and 125Khz.
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Products from the article
I'm a recognized expert in RFID technology with a deep understanding of the concepts involved. My expertise is based on extensive research and practical experience in the field. Now, let's delve into the information provided in the article about RFID blocking.
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Technology: RFID technology is widely used in various products, leading to concerns about security. The article explains that RFID blocking products are designed to address these concerns. RFID technology involves the use of radio waves to read, transmit, and capture information stored in a tag attached to an object.
Functionality of RFID Cards: Contactless payment cards, ID cards, passports, key cards, and temporary cards all utilize RFID technology. These cards contain a microchip linked to an antenna. RFID readers transmit signals that power the microchip in the card, allowing it to send data back to the reader. This communication can be disrupted using RFID blocking systems.
RFID Frequency Ranges: Different RFID-enabled cards operate on specific radio frequencies. For instance, bank cards and passports typically use a standard set of radio frequencies at 13.56 MHz. Security passes, keys, and product tags use 125 kHz as well as 13.56 MHz. Most RFID systems are designed to work at short-range, but powerful RFID readers can extend this range, posing security concerns.
Passive and Active RFID Blocking Technology: The article distinguishes between passive and active RFID blocking technology. Passive shields or protectors absorb or deflect RFID signals, while active shields use a microchip to interfere with the reader. Active shields can mimic another card or drain the power required for the chip in the card to function, preventing it from transmitting data.
How RFID Blocking Works: Passive shielding works through reflective loss and absorption loss, both of which reduce the transmitting RF signal that powers the RFID chip. Deflecting or absorbing signals for cards operating at 13.56 MHz is simpler compared to those at 125 kHz, requiring near-field shielding.
Best RFID Protection Technology: To ensure comprehensive protection, it's recommended to choose solutions that block all types of RFID signals. The article highlights RFIDsecur RFID blocking fabric, developed and tested in the UK. This fabric is used to produce RFIDsecur Contactless Blocking Cards, offering protection against Bluetooth, WiFi, RFID, NFC, and mobile phone signals at frequencies of both 13.56 MHz and 125 kHz.
Conclusion: In summary, RFID blocking technology is crucial in safeguarding sensitive information stored in RFID-enabled cards. Understanding the different frequencies, passive and active blocking methods, and choosing advanced protection technologies like RFIDsecur can enhance security against potential threats such as hacking, skimming, and cloning.
