Credit card RFID theft protection

http://www.digitaltrends.com/cool-tech/credit-card-rfid-theft-protection-is-as-simple-as-an-on-button/

I came across this article on the web today. The article talks about how there is RFID credit card theft and how a solution is on its way. When the idea to scan a credit card instead of swipe it was first introduced, the idea of people being able to steal information with RFID theft machines was not thought about. By simply searching "RFID hacks" into youtube or google, people can learn step by step directions on how to hack information from RFID chips. A machine can even be purchased from ebay for $50 that can be used to steal information.

Pittsburgh Swanson School of Engineering is in the process of creating an "on" and "off" switch for credit cards. If the card comes into contact with a chip reader, it will automatically be turned "on" and once contact is complete it will turn "off". I think this is a great idea and will help minimize theft. I was especially interested in this article after learning about the many uses of RFID in class and thought it was a really clever way to minimize the possibility of theft. Not only does this article address RFID chips, but also the advanced technology needed to hack the credit cards. Although by creating a way to turn "on" and "off" the RFID chip, with the increased technology available I would not be surprised if hackers find a way to turn the chip "on" and steal information in the future.