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1. Contacless credits cards are not as safe as they may seem. Credit cards have two different types of interfaces - the contact credit card (the ones we swipe at the checkout counter) and the contactless credit cards. Contactless credit cards only require that the credit card be placed in close proximity to a reader to enable transmission of data. Contactless credit cards typically takes less time to authenticate data when compared to contact credit cards.
2. While contact credit cards may be more convenient to use, it also makes it easier for thieves to scan the information on your credit card. A 2006 study at the University of Massachussetts at Amherst showed how easy it was to scan contactless credit cards obtaining information such as the credit card holder's name, credit card number, and expiration dates using a RFID reader purchased for $150.
3. If you do have a contactless credit card, there are three things you can do. You can buy a signal-blocking sleeve or an RFID blocking wallet. If you are looking for a cheaper alternative, you can wrap your credit card in aluminum foil. The final and only sure method to ensure your contactless credit card is not scanned by thieves is to send it back and ask your issuer for a RFID free credit card or request that the chip be deactivated.
