EU RFID Risks Manageable in Near Term Riskier in Networked Future

European technology study group assesses the use of RFID technology and its challenges. The analysis sees current privacy risks as limited, but envisions future risks associated with integrated information sources that may allow mining of the aggregate information, which could increase the likelihood of potential surveillance. ...

... "Although a more comprehensive survey would need to be undertaken to draw definite conclusions, these first accounts suggest that, relative to the scale of implementation, few Identity Management issues actually occur. In general, both user and maintainer of the RFID settings perceive RFID merely as an electronic key or wallet. The reason for this can be twofold. First of all, in all the cases it is clear who maintains the data and needs to comply with the guidelines on data protection. Second, many systems currently only cover a small area of a specific setting and run parallel to legacy systems. The RFID systems therefore only disclose small fragments of their users’ identity, limiting the maintainers' possibilities for control. " ...

Via European Union Scientific Technology Options Assessment: RFID and Identity Management in Everyday Life (PDF)

RFID Laptop Asset Management

Axcess implements RFID asset management system at Universidad Regiomontana in Mexico to secure laptops. ...

... "The University deployed Axcess' ActiveTag RFID physical computer asset protection solution in January 2006 with the goal of reversing asset theft and enhancing personnel tracking. Prior to implementation the university suffered a rate of 10-15 percent in laptop thefts on a regular basis. Following the use of the system, the thefts have been reduced to zero.

Axcess' patented ActiveTagTM RFID/RTLS and sensing systems use small, re-usable battery-powered tags (generically called Dual-Active tags) that when automatically activated, transmit a wireless message typically 30 to 100 feet to hidden palm size receivers. The receivers are connected via standard network simultaneously to the enterprise system software, the existing security alarm equipment, and standalone middleware and end-user software provided by Axcess under the OnlineSurpervisor label. With tags being activated only on-demand and only at control point locations, the system is highly reliable and accurate, with the tags lasting five years or longer depending on the battery being used. The Axcess Control Point architecture has been found to be more reliable than other local positioning methods using Wi-Fi systems or signal strength measurements. Its activation-based positioning can determine if an asset has left a secured area down to 1 foot of accuracy and can also determine its direction. The system alerts responsible personnel on an exception basis, freeing up asset management personnel for other critical tasks. Axcess recently introduced a new, low profile high-powered RFID asset tag measuring only 1in by 3in by 1/4in high. It is uniquely capable of reliably tagging solid metal IT assets, a feat typically difficult for wireless tags. " ...

Via Axcess: RFID Stops University Laptop and Identity Thefts

WA-State RFID License Border Pilot

Washington will pilot RFID-enabled driver's license for border crossings. ...

... "The alternative license will contain a Radio Frequency Identification chip, commonly known as RFID, which the guard booths will use to scan the license as a traveler or trucker pulls up to the booth. " ...

Via Seattle Post-Intelligencer: RFID Border Pilot

Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative: "The U.S. Department of Homeland Security signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the State of Washington to launch a pilot program that will enhance the security of state driver's licenses and potentially serve as an acceptable alternative document for crossing the United States' land and sea borders. The Washington pilot program is one possible compliance alternative to Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) requirements. As early as January 2008, U.S. citizens reentering the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, or Bermuda by land or sea, including ferries, may be required to present a valid U.S. passport or other documents as determined by the Department of Homeland Security.

The enhanced driver's license will be slightly more expensive than a standard Washington state driver's license and will require proof of citizenship, identity, and residence, as well as contain security features similar to a U.S. passport. "

3M RFID Library Productivity

3M Library Systems introduces new features into its workstations that make them fast, reliable and easy-to-use RFID products in the library environment. ...

... "Like its 3M predecessor model, the 3M Model 946 - with its ergonomic design - performs checkout or return in one step, combining RFID item identification and Tattle-Tape Security Strip from 3M in the same operation. The system also can perform bar code-to-RFID conversions for new acquisitions and smaller scale collections. For visual and audio media, it enables staff to verify that the case and item within match, without opening the case, and can confirm the presence of a sensitized Tattle-Tape Security Strip by means of a verifier light. Also introduced today was the 3M Conversion Station Model 812, an improved self-contained portable system for rapidly scanning bar codes and converting the data for RFID. Compared to its predecessor model, it contains a larger touch-sensitive screen, an easier-to-load 3M RFID tag dispenser, and the capability of converting all 3M RFID tag formats. Similar to its predecessor, 3M Model 812's sophisticated laser scanner is effective for virtually any bar code location or orientation, and provides a visible scan line that helps the user place items correctly. Because it does not require connection to an automated circulation system, the workstation can be easily moved on its cart for use in the stacks. The station also can reprogram RFID tags as items change. " ...

Via 3M Library Systems: 3M Unveils Two Advanced RFID Workstations with Additional Enhancements for Productivity and Security ...

Libraries are increasingly using RFID technology to manage their processes. ...

3M: Wyoming's Largest Public Library Chooses 3M RFID for Expanded Facility:

... "With the 3M RFID system, everything in the library's collection is affixed with an RFID tag. The tag contains a tiny antenna and a memory chip that stores information about each item's identity and allows accurate identification and tracking. A cordless, handheld scanner reads the tags, enabling library staff to easily locate, inventory, check in and check out materials. Unlike barcode systems, RFID does not require line of sight between the tag and the scanner, resulting in easier, more efficient tracking. " ...

RFID Acquisition Scenario

Oracle Sun Red Hat scenario considered ...

... "In so doing, Oracle becomes the custodian of Java and gains Sun's identity management and RFID businesses, not to mention its server and storage hardware." ...

Via Computerworld: Link

Protect RFID Passport Faraday Cage ...

Paraben offers inexpensive faraday cage for sale that protects RFID devices, such as electronic passports from privacy invasion. ...

... "Paraben's Passport StrongHold Bags use faraday technology to block wireless signals to protect personal information from being read by would-be identity thieves or other people who wish to invade privacy. These bags are perfect for storing anything using RFID chips so no one can steal the information from the RFID chip. One of the biggest concerns with e-Passports is that any RFID reader could read the information contained on the passport by just being in the same vicinity as the unprotected passport. The principal behind Paraben's Passport StrongHold Bags is based on a faraday cage that blocks signals that emanate from all directions. The bags create a complete enclosure, securing personal information ... " ...

Via Paraben Forensics: RFID Passport Protection ...

RFID Secure US Passports: Order Placed ...

Infineon receives RFID-enabled electronic-Passport order from US government, as all new passports will require the technology by end of this year. Infineon has experience with a number of countries and their e-passport implementations. ...

... "Infineon Technologies AG announced that it received a multi-million piece purchase order from the United States government to supply its highly-secure integrated circuit technology for the new electronic passport. Designed to facilitate international travel by allowing automatic identity verification, faster immigration inspections and greater border protection and security, the new passports include a computer chip in the back cover that securely stores the same information that is printed on the document. The US began issuing electronic passports to diplomats and other government workers in late 2005, and is now expanding the program to include the widely issued tourist passport used by private citizens. By the end of this year, the government expects that all new US passports will be issued as electronic passports.

Infineon supplies its secure identification chips to more than 20 countries that have begun to use electronic passports or have begun to test this technology, including Germany, Hong Kong, Norway and Sweden. In addition, Infineon provides the secure chips inside electronic identity documents used in such countries as Italy, Finland, the United Arab Emirates, Australia and Belgium, and also for Hong Kong, as well as the chips used for secure identification cards issued by the US Department of Defense. As a security measure, the US Congress passed legislation requiring that countries participating in the US Visa Waiver Program must issue passports with secure chip technology by October 2006. Concurrently, the US adopted this technology to conform to specifications for electronic passports developed by the international standards body for travel documents, the International Civil Aviation Organization. " ...

RFID Secure US Passports: Order Placed: Via Infineon Technologies: New US Passports Contain Secure Identification Chips ...

RFID ePassports Identity Skimming ...

RFID e-passports, or electronic passports, will become available in the United States. The RFID technology, used in the passports, is subject to identity skimming. ...

... "They'll have radio frequency identification (RFID) tags and are meant to cut down on human error of immigration officials, speed the processing of visitors and safeguard against counterfeit passports. " ...

RFID ePassports Identity Skimming: Via CNN: Technologists object to U.S. RFID passports ...

RFID ePassport Authentication ...

Viisage supports the authentication of Australia's ePassports through RFID technology. ...

... "Viisage, a leading provider of advanced technology identity solutions, announced that the Australia Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs (DIMA) has selected the Viisage iA-thenticate(R) Smart Chip/RFID Electronic Document Reader to improve security in more than 25 Australian overseas locations worldwide. This is the third of three consecutive contracts awarded to Viisage from the Australian government. Australia has been a leader in implementing Viisage's innovative document authentication technologies and products, which include one of the world's largest document databases for ensuring the authenticity of standard identity documents.

DIMA plans to use the Viisage iA-thenticate Smart Chip/RFID Electronic Document Reader to improve overall security around the issuance of travel and identity documents, specifically e-passports. The product is designed to ensure that all documents presented as proof of identification are credible and authentic. Following Brazil's implementation, previously announced in March 2006, this marks the second deployment of this unique product since its recent launch. Viisage provides other document authentication products to more than 20 countries including Australia, Canada, Sweden, Hungary, Brazil, Japan, and The United Arab Emirates. " ...

RFID ePassport Authentication: Via Viisage: Viisage's Proven Document Authentication Technology Aids Australian Border Control and Embassy Safety Initiatives Worldwide: Australia's Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs Awards Viisage Contract for Authentication of E-passports; Marks Third Consecutive Contract from an Australian Agency ...

RFID Passport Document Reader ...

Viisage RFID Passport document reader is chosen by SERPRO of Brazil to enable electronic authentication at borders. ...

... "SERPRO (Servico Federal de Processamento de Dados) of Brazil has selected Viisage's iA-thenticate(R) Smart Chip/RFID Electronic Document Reader to ensure the authenticity and accuracy of information with e-Passports, e-Visas, driver's licenses and ID cards at all airports, seaports and land crossing borders throughout the country. The contract, valued at $1.7 million, marks the first industry deployment of a smart chip reader and further outlines the option for SERPRO to spend an additional 25% of the original contract value through the exercise of add-on technologies. The systems will be operated by the Department of Federal Police (Departamento de Policia Federal - DPF). This is the first nation-wide implementation of an automated RFID document authentication system in the western hemisphere, and positions Brazil, the fifth most populated country in the world, as a leader in the use of border security technology. The iA-thenticate with smart chip technology helps prevent identity fraud during border crossing by using the embedded e-passport smart chip reader, to verify the validity of credentials that are electronically stored on the e-passport. The product is also used to validate the authenticity of standard passports that are not RFID chip enabled. The implementation will be in conjunction with the production of the new Brazilian passport, which will be issued later in 2006. With more than 200 units already shipped, full deployment is planned to be underway by the end of the first quarter; completed deployment is expected during the second quarter of 2006. " ...

RFID Passport Document Reader: Via Viisage: Viisage is Selected by the Department of Federal Police of Brazil for Border Security Program; The iA-thenticate Smart Chip/RFID Critical to Brazil's Border Security ...

RFID Multiple Authentication Factor ...

Encentuate offers multiple methods of authentication through identity form factors such as RFID tags, smart cards, and USB tokens ...

... "Each organization is different, and each situation provides a unique access security challenge, said Peng T. Ong, founder and chairman of Encentuate. What sets Encentuate TCI apart from other solutions is our ability to seamlessly integrate with a number of authentication technologies, from RFID to USB tokens. As a result, we can eliminate an organization’s dependence on weak passwords and ensure secure access to computer systems using a variety of authentication factors. The authentication opportunities are practically limitless and we work with each organization to determine the solution, which is most effective for their requirements. Encentuate TCI’s ability to integrate with a variety of authentication factors provides enterprises a seamless path to strong digital identity without introducing additional complexity, cost or overwhelming deployments.

Encentuate TCI gives organizations a choice of authentication solutions, each of which greatly improves security. With a simple swipe of an RFID badge or a fingerprint scan organizations can strengthen access to computer systems while allowing the staff to quickly access the information they need to be productive on their jobs. " ...

RFID Multiple Authentication Factor: Via Encentuate: Encentuate TCI Delivers Multiple Authentication Factor Support: Company's technology integrates with a variety of multi-function authentication solutions, including RFID, biometrics and USB tokens ...

RFID Philips Electronics Phenom Project

Philips Electronics is investing in a long-term research project, called PHENOM. This project will create an identity-, location-, and intention-aware environment which can predict, sense, and respond to behavior. A prototype has been built and tested. The RFID-enabled system learns from users, devices and objects behavior and makes the interaction feel very natural. ...

... "The tracking and identification sub-system consists of a Smart Door and a Magic Table. Both the door and the table can identify objects, fitted with an RFID tag, as well as people carrying an RFID badge in their pocket. The tags and badges are battery-free and maintenance-free. The data generated by the tag readers is collected by servants (independent software agents), which transform it into useful information. " ...

RFID Philips Electronics Phenom Project: Via Philips Research Technologies: An overview of the PHENOM project ...

Additional resources on Philips Electronics' progress in the research of RFID applications ...

Ambient Experience in practice: Royal Philips Electronics: "In addition to a CT scanner, the Yacktman Children's CT Pavilion has three main elements: projection, dynamic LED lighting and RFID. Patients can choose from four themes, each geared for different tastes and age groups; aquatic, space, fly-through and a default lava lamp type ambience. RFID-encoded cards corresponding to the theme chosen by patients cause the lighting and wall/ceiling projection to change "

RFID e-Passports Speed Travelers ...

Transition to e-passports will be implemented quickly. ...

... "Through the planned technology enhancements at our ports of entry, we'll be able to recognize and expedite the movement of low-risk or trusted travelers by linking cardholders to secure databases that will allow us to quickly verify identity and citizenship. We can also leverage these advancements in technology to increase aviation security. We've already found, for example, that our machine-readable passports have helped to speed travelers through our airport controls while adding an additional layer of necessary security. By 2007, the United States will transition exclusively to e-passports that will contain biometric information. Through this kind of electronic passport, we can verify a traveler's identity, protect against identity theft and make it very difficult for forgers or imposters. " ...

RFID e-Passports Speed Travelers: Via DHS | Department of Homeland Security | Remarks by Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff on Secure Borders and Open Doors in the Information Age, at an Event at the Department of State ...

RFID eIdentity USB Reader: Passport Capable ...

ASK introduces USB-connection RFID reader that has shown interoperability with Interfest e-passport standards. ...

... "ASK launches the RDR 400 series of contactless USB readers, designed for performance, security and ergonomics. RDR 400 readers are ideal for contactless logical/physical access control, identity, banking and PC-based applications. Based on CPL 400 couplers, the RDR 400 series is high speed, low cost, multi-standard and multi-application; its unique and powerful RF interface means that RDR 400 readers support all current ISO dual interface/contactless cards and contactless tickets.

RDR 400 has passed successfully e-passport Interfest interoperability tests taking place in November in Singapore. These tests involved 124 different passports complying with ISO14443 type A or B standards from 28 countries to be tested on 40 readers. ASK reader reached the best performances both in terms of interoperability and communication speed. ASK is breaking new ground in emerging markets such as e-identity and banking where clients need technology partners with superlative expertise in both RFID card and reader technology " ...

RFID eIdentity USB Reader: Passport Capable: Via ASK: ASK launches new contactless USB reader RDR 400 series ...

Founded in 1997, ASK is now the supplier of the most comprehensive range of contactless cards, tickets, RFID tags and readers on the market. All products comply with ISO and EPC standards. ASK addresses the mass transit, access control, e-government ID, supply chain and logistics markets. 50 million contactless cards, tickets and RFID labels are already in use worldwide. ASK’s manufacturing plant is located at its Sophia-Antipolis headquarters in France, with regional offices in Paris, Singapore and Westport, USA.

RFID People Chipping ...

RFID chipping of people is not very far away. Consumer items, passports, drugs, and other objects will have RFID tags and could serve as a mechanism for tracking and tracing people. In the references below, there are many examples where people RFID chipping is beginning. Mark Long explores the benefits and privacy concerns of RFID technology as adoption increases to solve various problems in society. ...

... "Nevertheless, the chipping of Americans may not be as far away as some people think. For one thing, RFID tags are likely to play a pivotal role in securing the next generation of American identity documents, said Bob McCullough, an analyst at The Yankee Group. " ...

RFID People Chipping: Tracked by a Tiny Chip: The Promise and Peril of RFID - Via Tech Trends - NewsFactor Network

Additional resources on the chipping of people with RFID:

Feds approve human RFID implants | Via The Register: "The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a gimmick from Florida-based Applied Digital Solutions to chip people with RFID implants - previously confined to tracking animals - thereby making it easy to access their medical records, even when they cannot, or would rather not, cooperate."

EPIC RFID Privacy Page: "In comments to the Article 29 Working Group, an association of leading European privacy officials, EPIC has recommended strong safeguards for RFIDs and techniques to track the use of digital works. EPIC's Comments on RFID (pdf) recommend a prohibition on chipping people and warn that unencrypted RFID passports pose significant security risks. "

Japan: Schoolkids to be tagged with RFID chips - Hardware - News - Via ZDNet Asia: "The rights and wrongs of RFID-chipping human beings have been debated since the tracking tags reached the technological mainstream. Now, school authorities in the Japanese city of Osaka have decided the benefits outweigh the disadvantages and will now be chipping children in one primary school. "

Implantable RFID Temperature Sensor: Bird Flu Application ...

Digital Angel applies implantable temperature-sensor RFID chips to the poultry market for bird flu monitoring application. ...

Implantable RFID Temperature Sensor: Bird Flu Application: Via Digital Angel: DIGITAL ANGEL CORPORATION TO INTRODUCE ITS PROPRIETARY BIO-THERMO™ (TEMPERATURE-SENSING) IMPLANTABLE RFID MICROCHIP AND IDENTITY SYSTEM: Early Detection of Increased Temperature May Prove Pivotal to Identification and Control of Avian Flu Outbreaks ...

... "Digital Angel Corporation (Amex: DOC), an advanced technology company in the field of rapid and accurate identification, location tracking, and condition monitoring of high-value assets, announced that it will introduce its patented Bio-Thermo (temperature-sensing) implantable RFID microchip and related identity system to international poultry/bird markets with the initial geographic emphasis in Asia. The comprehensive identity system includes the implantable Bio-Thermo microchip and related identity and temperature-sensing scanners that allow early identification of temperature increases in individual birds which may permit rapid identification and control of an outbreak of bird flu or other avian diseases. Until now the Company has focused its implantable RFID temperature sensing system on the companion pet and equine marketplace. The system is in testing phases for other livestock such as cattle and swine. " ...

RFID Readers: Broad Transponder Support: ACG ...

RFID Readers: Broad Transponder Support: ACG: Via ACG: ACG launches unique contactless reader with multiple ISO protocol compatibility: Support for ISO 14443A/B, ISO 15693, ISO 18000-3 and I-CODE, all in one module ...

... "This new family of high-speed 13.56 MHz RFID readers features exceptionally broad support for different transmission protocols and transponder ICs. It is designed to meet the requirements for both secure personal identity verification and supply chain management applications. Typical applications of the HF Multi ISO Reader platform include access control, e-payment, e-ticketing for events and mass transit, toll road fare collection, network authentication, logistics and supply chain management. " ...

RFID CEO Presents Europe Conference ...

RFID CEO Presents Europe Conference: Via TAGSYS RFID: TAGSYS CEO To Present To World IT and Business Leaders At The Exclusive European Technology Roundtable Exhibition (ETRE) 2005 ...

... " ... international audience of IT and business leaders will learn about how TAGSYS item-level RFID technology is helping customers to protect brand identity, automate-labor intensive processes, authenticate and safeguard goods, and enable real-time inventory and asset visibility. Using customer examples in the pharmaceutical and retail fashion sectors, Simon will emphasize the importance of establishing a clear business case and achieving measurable ROI.

WHO: Elie Simon, CEO of TAGSYS
WHEN: Monday, October 17, 2005 from 2:45 to 2:57 pm

WHERE: InterContinental, Athenaeum IC Athens, Greece " ...

RFID NewSongo NonIdentity Smartcard ...

RFID NewSongo NonIdentity Smartcard: Via Luxist: New Songo, South Korea's new super-city ...

... "New Songo will be built around a $279 million RFID research center, and its 65,000 residents will have a non-identity-linked smartcard that they'll use to make purchases, access mass transit and parking, and unlock their homes. " ...

Healthcare RFID Hospital Installations ...

Healthcare RFID Hospital Installations: Via Radianse: New Radianse active-RFID installations at Yale-New Haven Hospital, PinnacleHealth Hospitals and St. Vincent's Hospital

... "Yale-New Haven Hospital, New Haven, Connecticut, installed a Radianse IPS to improve equipment management and patient and staff flows across Perioperative Services and the Cardiac Thoracic Intensive Care unit. Close to a thousand pieces of medical equipment are covered by a Radianse IPS, so wherever equipment is located from central supply to the post anesthesia care unit it can be immediately found using a simple, web-based search. That same search function can be used to locate a number of managers who wear Radianse active-RFID location tags in the first phase of staff location. When patient location is deployed later this year, the hospital plans to use Radianse single-use active-RFID tags, a wristwatch-sized device designed to maximize comfort, safety and convenience across a patient's length of stay. " ...

Radianse, Inc., Lawrence, Mass., provides hospitals with wireless indoor positioning solutions (IPS) that accurately locate and associate medical equipment, patients and staff. University, regional and community hospitals alike use Radianse applications for asset tracking, patient and staff location and real-time alerts to reduce costs, improve efficiencies and safety and increase satisfaction and revenues. A Radianse IPS, which combines active-RFID tags with LAN-ready receivers and web-based location analysis software, installs simply, expands readily and delivers a return on investment in a matter of months. The Radianse Ready™ partner program provides equipment and clinical applications providers the ability to integrate identity and time-based location data.