Criminals hack RFID microchips

Privacy advocates are worried microchips implanted inside credit cards, access cards, and even passports could be a criminal's keys to your castle, writes WLBT.

Radio frequency identification (RFID) technology is supposed to add another layer of security for international travellers; however, criminals have found a way to access the information.

The US State Department says it has taken steps to tighten security and prevent tracking and copying of passports, but admits that nothing is fool-proof.

China Mobile has signed an agreement with WuMart stores in Beijing to start the roll-out of a cellphone shopping payment service, states Alibaba.

China Mobile's e-wallet service uses an RFID SIM card in the cellphone, enabling users to pay for goods at point-of-sale. According to the deal, 20 million China Mobile users in Beijing can shop with their cellphones in over 300 WuMart outlets.

China Mobile's Beijing branch is also under negotiation to involve public transportation into its cellphone service.

Psion Teklogix and Viascan are partnering to develop RFID technology for tracking skier whereabouts at the 44th Annual Canadian Ski Marathon, says RFID News.

Psion Teklogix' Workabout Pro handheld computers will be placed at 10 different check points to capture information on more than 2 000 cross-country skiers.

Prior to the partnership, all skier data was manually recorded with pen and paper, often taking several weeks to consolidate.