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.

Comments

Re:Most interesting...

[KC7GR]

Let me put it this way. Think of the saying "Too many cooks spoil the broth."

I've already entered a gripe about this in my journal. Yes, it's a minor quibble, but is a little consistency too much to ask?