Radio Frequency Identity (RF-ID) Blocking Passport Wallet

Overall impression:The U.S. State Department began issuing passports embedded with radio-frequency identity tags (RF-ID) in August 2006. These are also becoming the norm in a growing number of countries. While the new RF-ID passports are expected to enhance border security, enough concerns have been raised by computer security experts about the privacy risks they pose to the passport holder that I felt compelled to secure mine. The RF-ID Blocking Passport Wallet, made of fine leather with a protective shield inner lining to ensure the RF data cannot be accessed unless the wallet is open, provided an inconspicuous way to protect my new passport from potential data-stealing hackers.

The left side of the wallet consisted of a thick clear vinyl pocket edged in stitched leather, sized to snuggly accommodate my passport. Meanwhile, the right side, with its three deep credit card slots, driver’s license pocket with a clear vinyl window and full length bills pocket underneath functioned efficiently as a self-contained wallet. Once closed, the RF-ID Blocking Passport Wallet had the appearance of an elegant billfold, slim enough to easily slip into my handbag or inside coat pocket. I especially appreciated that this wallet gave me the ability organize passport, cash and credit cards in a single, compact case.

Manufacturer/distributor Magellan International, Santa Barbara, CA

Type of product RF-ID blocking passport wallet

List price $19.85

Colors Black and red

Size 5½” x 4” x 0.4” closed

Weight 2.7 oz. empty

Materials High quality tanned leather, high conductivity RF shielding aluminum mesh, thick clear vinyl and smooth nylon lining

Country(ies) tested USA and France

Number of days tested 14 days

Date of last review March 2007

Would you use this product again? Yes

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