Intro: Since the 1940s, the RFID chip has come a long way since its invention. It was initially used to identify the enemy and friendly aircraft in WWII.
Over the years, RFID tags have been involved in many industries. For example, shops hurry checkout through these tags, preventing theft by customers and employees. Airports use RFID readers to access passengers' information, saving time for long queues.
The widespread use of RFID chips poses a huge risk of information leakage, especially in airports, where many people hold passports and ID cards out in the air. Such behavior leaves a huge space for information theft.
Then is there any effective method to protect our personal information?
This is when you hear of an RFID wallet. But how do these bags protect information? Which material works best?
Intro
What is RFID?
How does an RFID wallet protect private information?
3 RFID Blocking Materials
Conclusion
What is RFID?
RFID (Radio-frequency identification) uses electromagnetic fields to automatically identify and track tags attached to objects.
To be clear, this is a technology. There exist two compartments - an RFID chip and an RFID reader during the data transmission process.
The reader sends out an electromagnetic interrogation pulse.
The chip receives the pulse, which functions as a signal for it to transmit data information back to the reader.
How does an RFID wallet protect private information?
RFID-blocking wallet manufacturers choose certain kinds of materials to make wallets. Metal is their priority choice.
To be clear, here we have three components - metal, chip, and RFID reader.
Before explaining its blocking process, we need to be aware of two points.
The metal is wrapped around the card to protect the information inside. It means the data needs to transmit through the metal.
Metal automatically generates a magnetic field, which blocks the data transmission.
3 RFID Blocking Materials
We have known the theory that the metal layer protects the cards away from information leakage.
So here are two methods to put the theory into practice.
One is manufacturing the wallet with metal inside and out. The other is constructing a protection layer inside the bag.
The most obvious difference lies in that the latter method can decide the outlooking of the bag, almost free from the restriction of the material.
Aluminum
Aluminum is one of the most welcomed materials for RFID wallets since it's affordable and lightweight.
Also, it offers a reasonable amount of protection, especially when it is wrapped closely around your cards or your passport.
This type of aluminum is much thicker than its storebought counterpart and can be quite sufficient at protecting your personal information.
Carbon Fiber
When searching for RFID blocking materials, you will find a lot of RFID accessories made of carbon fiber.
Not only is it sleek, minimalistic, and current, but carbon fiber is also quite effective at blocking magnetic fields.
The outcome is particularly outstanding when involved in a Faraday shield, also known as a Faraday cage.
In 1836, an English scientist invented the cage, named after its inventor Michael Faraday. This invention is incredibly useful.
When the wires are weaved together, any magnetic waves that are sent to the wallet will bend. The cage will absorb any energy produced by RFID readers, which will create a reliable barrier.
A wide range of products applies this technology, such as laptop bags, phone cases, and more.
Another impressive advantage features in its ample amount durability. As the metal is quite heavy-duty, it gives you the ability to prevent scratches and dents over time.
Copper Faraday Shield
Similar to carbon fiber, copper is one of the higher-quality materials used to make RFID-blocking accessories.
It is frequently used for its fantastic functionality in disrupting signals and keeping your data safe.
Same as carbon fiber, copper also possesses a shield to protect the data. And it's more powerful in resisting higher frequencies.
When arranged in a Faraday shield, copper is relatively impenetrable, especially against higher frequencies.
Besides, due to its resilience and reliability, copper is also one of the more expensive materials to use.
Conclusion
When you start looking for items that block RFID signals, you shouldn’t focus on a single material.
Different materials suit different situations. It depends on your prior requirement.
For your peace of mind, while you’re traveling, it is a good idea to put your money into a wallet or bag that has higher-quality materials.
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