RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) wallets prevent people from making unauthorized credit card payments. The card was first used back in World War II when soldiers needed to identify British aircraft. Now, however, they are used in online shopping, banking, and other transaction-related processes.
We have all been hearing about RDIF wallets, but most do not know what they are, or why they are important. Therefore, we are going to talk about these RFID wallets in this comprehensive guide.
RFID Wallets: What are They?
Credit card thieves can use RFID readers to scan your credit card and make unauthorized transactions from your account.
The RFID card uses radio waves to get detected, whereas the RFID wallets block these cards from being read. It is because the RFID wallets have a special material that prevents these cards from becoming exposed.
There is virtually no way that someone can steal your credit card information and details if you have a properly maintained RFID wallet. While this may seem like an unnecessary thing, it is not. It is a great way to avoid credit card theft since it is so common nowadays.
RFID Wallets: How do They Work?
RFID has been a part of the U.S. from as early as 2006. We already mentioned how the RFID cards use a radio wave system to communicate for the transaction.
Fortunately, the RFID wallets can block these waves, and prevent any kind of transactions from the user’s end without their consent. Moreover, it can also prevent skimmers from accessing your account information.
Types of RFID Wallet Blocking
The RFID Wallets primarily use two different kinds of technology to prevent skimmers from unauthorized access. This is called active and passive RFID blocking technology. Let us have a quick look at both these types for your understanding.
Active RFID Blocking
The active RFID Blocking requires using a microchip for better protection against credit card scams. You can find the chip installed on the wallet physically, which prevents the RFID card from accessing unwanted information.
Passive RFID Blocking
Passive RFID blocking involves technology that absorbs radio waves from the get-go. This makes it easier for the card owners to prevent skimmers from making monetary access. This helps create the impressions of another card that clashes with the data of the original one.
It is safe to say that Active RFID blocking is a better alternative than a passive one. This is because the chip blocks all frequencies in the surroundings that skimming devices use. This makes it impossible for credit card thieves to access it without the owner’s knowledge.
RFID Wallets: How to Test Them?
Testing RFID wallets is not a difficult task. You need to follow the steps we have mentioned ahead.
- Find a place with an RFID reader like an ATM, tracker, etc.
- Next, place your RFID card in front of it and check if you hear a beep
- Next, place your card in the RFID wallet
- Place the card on the RIFD reader again (you should not hear the beeping sound this time).
What to Consider Before Buying an RFID Wallet?
There are plentiful options that you should keep in mind while choosing an RFID wallet.
Material
The kind of material your RFID wallet matters the most. It is because the RFID wallet material determines its lasting over time. While you cannot do much about the periodic wear and tear, choosing a durable material can help keep your card secure for longer. You can find these cards in various material options, these include:
- Faux leather
- Genuine leather
- Aluminum
- Carbon fiber
Style
Accessibility is the next most important thing to consider before an RFID card purchase. The style of your card determines the ease of carrying, accessibility, and storage ease altogether. The kind of style depends on preference, but we suggest considering your options before making a decision. These cards are available in trifold, bifold, cardholder, and several other design variations.
Storage
The kind of storage you need will impact how well you can handle your RFID wallet. For instance, you should consider the number of pockets and slots you want in your RFID wallet. So, if you like to carry it lightly, you can choose a slimmer RFID wallet, slide in a few cards and carry it easily.
Bottom Line
RFID wallets are a great way to secure your wallet against unwanted skimming, access, and transactions. It uses a simple radio wave-blocking technology, which provides better protection.
We hope this complete guide to RFID wallets helps you choose the right one for your purchase. Just keep factors like size, style, storage, and material in mind before it.