Orlando, FL -- (SBWIRE) -- 09/01/2016 -- Nowadays, more and more apps are being developed to provide entertainment and convenience to tech-savvy individuals. However unfortunately, there are also apps that are disadvantageous than beneficial.
Experts warn about the risk linked with credit card skimming smartphone app. This type of app works by reading credit card information through purses and wallets. Due to its highly invasive nature, it has become a cause of concern for individuals who use credit cards.
According to experts, this app can work on credit cards that are enabled with the radio-frequency identification technology.
The CBC investigation reveals that this free app allows a mobile phone to scan and read the credit card's RFID chip. This means it has the ability to pick up the cardholder's name, credit card number as well as the expiry date.
Today, there are many RFID-enabled credit cards. This technology works by storing certain information such as the cardholder's name, card number, and expiry date. However, it does not store the three digit security number usually located at the back of the card, which is normally used during large purchases.
Major banking institutions and credit card companies are confident that the RFID technology is safe. Unfortunately, it is not encrypted. It is not like the chip located at the front of the card, which plugs in to credit or debit machines physically.
According to David Skillicorn, professor at the school of computing at Queens University, the units are set on very low ranges. These units are where the card is tapped on. While they are set on very low ranges, the power can be turned up to a distance of 10 to 15 feet.
The RFID technology works in the same way as the typical magnetic strip on a credit card, only that it works wirelessly. This makes a card susceptible to high-tech thieves.
Today, card skimming devices are widely used by fraudsters in committing credit card crimes. This type of device can scan and read credit card information and steal it. It can read credit card information even if the victim and thief are a few feet away from each other.
The good news is that there are ways consumers can protect themselves from thieves. One is to use the set of RFID blocking sleeves, which work by blocking card skimming apps and devices from reading the card information.
This set of RFID blocking sleeves are widely believed to protect credit and debit cards, and even passports. It is available at amazon.com. (www.amazon.com/rfid-blocking-sleeves/dp/B0150T0AI2).
About RFID Vault
RFID Vault is a brand dedicated to protecting your bank without breaking it! Keep your personal information stored on bank cards, credit cards, driver's licenses and passports safe a secure. We are dedicated to providing quality RFID products and personal customer service. Learn more at http://www.myRFIDvault.com
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