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Fatal Flaw Weakens RFID Passports
fmwap writes "Wired news is reporting on new measures being taken to ensure RFID in US passports are not traceable. Encryption will be implemented via a key printed on the passport, which will be read by an optical scanner. The problem is the RFID serial number used for collisions will not be encrypted as is required for communication, thus still allowing tracking." We've previously reported on the decision to chip U.S. passports. From the article: "To its credit, the State Department listened to the criticism. As a result, RFID passports will now include a thin radio shield in their covers, protecting the chips when the passports are closed. Although some have derided this as a tinfoil hat for passports, the fact is the measure will prevent the documents from being snooped when closed." Update: 11/04 16:08 GMT by Z : Edited for accuracy.
Time to don the full body tinfoil armor!
domain combinatorics
I only travel by climbing fences and digging tunnels.
man, I feel like mold.
Well, you could always keep your passport locked in the hotel safe.
:)
Of course, the supposed terrorist could always check:
a) Does the individual wear white tennis shoes (black socks and shorts optional)?
b) Speak in a loud and/or abrasive manner?
c) Stands to the left on an escalator (or any other cultural misqueue)
Being an US citizen and traveling abroad quite often to Europe, it's not too hard picking out my compatriots.
The same can be said for European's in the US. European males -- LOSE THE MAN-CAPRI'S PLEASE!