How to Protect Your RFID Credit Card

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Keep your card safe from thieves and scammers

Co-authored by Clinton M. Sandvick, JD, PhD

Last Updated: May 14, 2024 Approved

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While You Shop

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Making and Using Shields

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Shopping Online

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Video

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Tips

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Warnings

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Things You'll Need

RFID embedded cards use radio frequencies to transmit data. These cards have been in use in Europe for many years but are just coming into use in the U.S. The idea is that consumers should be able to use these cards at stores and restaurants to pay for purchases without having to swipe the card through a scanner. Many people remain concerned, however, that the RFID technology may also allow thieves to use scanners to intercept the radio waves and steal the card's information. While technology has made significant security improvements in the past few years, some concerns still exist.

Things You Should Know

Store multiple RFID cards close to each other in your wallet to make them harder to read, or carry them in your front pocket to discourage thieves.
Use an RFID shield wallet or protective sleeve, wrap it in foil, or store your card next to an RFID jamming card to protect its signal.
Distance yourself from other customers when using your card. For maximum security, only use it for at-home, online purchases.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Being Careful and Changing Habits

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This can make it more difficult for thieves to read a particular card^{[1]
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Research source}, but the protection is limited.
If you usually carry your credit cards in a wallet in your back pocket, you are potentially more vulnerable to thieves who could step up behind you with a scanning device. If you switch the cards to a front pocket, you will tend to be more observant of people in front of you and are less likely to become a victim.^{[2]
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Some of the newest RFID technology limits the opportunity of thieves to scan your cards to short distances and only at the time of the sale.^{[3]
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Research source} Before using your card in a store, check around you to make sure that nobody is standing within a few feet of you, and your transaction should be safe.
If you are really concerned by the RFID technology, this is a possible way to go, and you can then use other credit cards or cash to purchase things outside your home. However, identity theft through online computer use is probably a greater risk than using the RFID technology in a store.
This may not actually prevent thieves from stealing information from your card, but monitoring your statements regularly will help you and the credit card company identify any unauthorized purchases and can limit your potential losses.^{[4]
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Research source}Some sources say that regular monitoring of your credit card statements is actually the “best” protection against identity theft.^{[5]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Making and Using Shields

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There are several commercial products available that claim to block RFID scanners from obtaining your personal information. These may be individual sleeves for your RFID cards or wallets that are lined with material to block scanners.^{[6]
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Some companies have developed a device about the size of a credit card that sends out its own RFID signal that will disrupt scanners trying to get your credit card information.^{[7]
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This is the “low-tech” way to go, but it’s cheap and easy. Cut two pieces of paper or cardboard into the size of a credit card, wrap each piece with aluminum foil, and carry them in your wallet around your credit cards. The aluminum will disrupt most electronic signals.^{[10]
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The foil shields the card from scanners.^{[11]
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Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Keeping Credit Cards Safe for Online Purchases

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Verify that vendors you use online are legitimate. Stick to vendors that you have used before and that you know and trust. If you have concerns, you can check with the Better Business Bureau online at http://www.bbb.org/ or in the local area where the company has its business.
Truly secure websites use extra protection called a Secure Sockets Layer, or SSL, and the website address will begin with "https" instead of the usual "http." Additionally, a secure site will show a closed lock icon in the status bar at the bottom of the page. If you don't see the "https" address or the padlock at the bottom, you should consider using another website for your purchase.
For safer online shopping, keep your own computer free of viruses or spyware. There are software products you can purchase or download online for free that will help you keep your computer clean.^{[12]
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Because anything wireless is potentially subject to hackers who find a way to intercept the radio signal, your safest method for online shopping is to use a hardwired Internet connection.
Many banks and credit companies will offer this service for no fee. You can get a card number that is separate from your actual account, but the bank links it to your account for your bona fide purchases.

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Tips

Check your credit report regularly. The three main credit reporting agencies, Equifax, Experian, and Transunion, will provide you a free copy of your credit report once a year. If you see any discrepancies, investigate them right away and notify the reporting agency.

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Check with your bank whether it automatically sends you RFID embedded cards, just in case you're unaware you have one (or more). If you don't want one, make this clear to the bank. You may not have a choice, but it can’t hurt to ask.

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http://www.equifax.com/home/en_us

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Warnings

Contact your credit card company or bank immediately if you notice any discrepancies or suspicious activity on your statements.

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