Your cards are broadcasting information that you might not want shared, and they contain sensitive data. That’s why RFID Blockers exist.

You’ll discover in this article how RFID blockers operate, why you might require one, and how to pick the best one for your safety.

Table of Contents

What is RFID Blocker

RFID blocking is a method of making your RFID enabled cards resistant to being scanned. The most common method is to use an RFID blocking wallet or cardholder which is made of special material that disrupts the electromagnetic fields preventing the unwanted access to your card information.

The technology was designed to curtail the use of contactless payment features by criminals. A thief with an RFID scanner could also secretly pick up your card’s details without physical contact while you’re in a busy subway, standing in line at a store, or walking down the street in a scenario known as “skimming.” RFID blockers offer you peace of mind when carrying RFID enabled cards, preventing these types of electronic pickpocketing attacks.

How to use RFID blocker

It is quite simple to use an RFID blocker. Here’s what you need to do:

RFID Blocking Card – Just place it in your wallet next to your credit or debit cards. The blocker card will act as a shield over your other cards.
If you have a wallet or sleeve with built-in RFID blocking material, then all you need to do is store your RFID enabled cards inside.
DIY Methods – Others line up their wallets with aluminum foil or special fabric. It’s not as effective as a professionally designed blocker, but it can provide some protection in a pinch.

Do RFID blockers really work?

You may wonder whether or not RFID blockers actually do what they say they do. The bad news is that there are no such things as RFID blocking materials that will prevent your cards and passports from being scanned without your permission. With more digital theft on the radar, the number of products that incorporate RFID blocking technology is increasing—wallets to waterproof travel pouches.

Typically used to shield against these contactless attacks, a layer of carbon fiber or aluminum is present in many RFID blocking accessories. But do you really need one?

The truth is, RFID skimming is a possibility, but not as much as you would think. Even if you use an RFID blocker, it does add an extra layer of security if you travel frequently or carry multiple RFID enabled cards. Even if you don’t want to invest in a dedicated RFID-blocking wallet, a simple layer of tinfoil can disrupt RFID signals, but it’s a less practical and durable solution.

When is it appropriate to use RFID Blocker?

In crowded areas where this type of skimming is more common, RFID blocking cards and wallets are very useful. An RFID blocker can be a great extra protection against potential thieves if you’re traveling by train, going through a busy airport, or attending a large public event.

RFID blocking cards are great because they are slim and compact so they are easy to add to your everyday carry. Since it’s always attached to your credit card in the same wallet sleeve, you always have it with you when you need it, without adding bulk to your pocket or purse.

Are RFID blocking wallets able to read RFID cards?

This is a common misconception. RFID blocking wallets do not “read” your cards, but rather just block any unauthorized scans. As long as you’re using your card for a legitimate transaction, you will have to remove it from the blocking wallet or sleeve first.

RFID Blocking Materials

RFID signals can be blocked by several materials in order to prevent unauthorized scanning. Some of the most effective ones are as follows:

Aluminum, Copper, or Steel – Metal is one of the best RFID blocking materials. It reflects and bounces radio waves so that they do not pass through the material. For that reason, RFID blocking wallets often have metal layers and wrapping a card in aluminum foil can block signals in a pinch.
Believe it or not, water can absorb radio waves and disrupt RFID signals. For that reason RFID does not work well underwater. You’re unlikely to be carrying a water filled wallet, but RFID in aquatic environments is something to bear in mind.
Thick concrete walls may weaken or block RFID signals. This is likely why if you’ve ever had trouble scanning a keycard in a parking garage. You aren’t going to be making a concrete wallet, but it’s good to know how environments can affect RFID.
RFID signal strength can be slightly reduced by some types of leather. Unfortunately, standard leather wallets do not offer enough protection on their own, which is why RFID blocking wallets include shielding materials.
A Faraday cage is a specially designed enclosure made of conductive materials that block electromagnetic field, including an RFID signal. This is a principle often used by high end RFID blocking wallets and card sleeves, which incorporate metal mesh or layers into their design.

Benefits of RFID blocker

For that reason, why should you invest in an RFID blocker? Here are some key benefits:

Prevent Electronic Pickpocketing – Protects your credit and debit card details from electronic pickpocketing.
Prevents unauthorized scans of passports and driver’s licenses with embedded RFID chips.
Peace of Mind – No longer need to worry about RFID skimming when travelling or shopping.
Slim RFID blocking card or wallet – It is convenient to carry it with you as it doesn’t feel like a hassle.

Does the RFID blocking card’s orientation impact how effective it is?

Specifically, there is no difference in the security of your credit or debit cards if your RFID blocker is oriented in a particular way. The RFID blocking card can be placed anywhere in your wallet, front, back, or upside down and it will still work.

But for the best protection, it’s best to put your RFID enabled cards between two RFID blockers or even place a blocking card in the middle of all your bank cards. This setup blocks potential scanning attempts from all sides, thus shielding your cards from attempts by portable RFID scanners to grab your information.

How can you check the functionality of your RFID blocking card?

Do you want to test whether your RFID blocker actually works? Here’s how you can do it:

Most modern smartphones have NFC (Near Field Communication) capabilities. From the Google Play Store or Apple App Store download an app like “NFC Tools”. Scan an RFID enabled card, then repeat the scan with a RFID blocker placed in between. Your blocker is working if the data is unreadable.
Head to a grocery store with self checkout kiosks and test at one. If you are paying, place your RFID blocker over your card and try to pay. Your RFID blocker is working if the reader can’t see your card.
If you have an RFID enabled work badge or hotel keycard, try with and without the blocker and with an Access Card. An effective shield is if the scanner cannot read your card when the blocker is in place.

Choosing the Best RFID blocker

When choosing the best RFID blocker for your needs, take into account these main points:

Reflective Protection – Stay away from a card that merely reflects signals but does not actively jam skimming devices.
Small enough to fit in your wallet or cardholder – Your RFID blocker should be small enough to fit in your wallet or cardholder, so you do not have to worry about carrying it around.
Product from a Reliable Manufacturer – It is also important to buy a product from a reliable manufacturer to make sure it actually promises the protection that it offers.
A good RFID blocker should not require batteries or charging.
Compatible with RFID and NFC Signals – To prevent RFID and NFC signals, make sure that the blocker is compatible with RFID and NFC signals.

Conclusion

While not the most common of crimes, RFID skimming is real. Luckily, an RFID blocker is an easy and inexpensive way to protect your cards against electronic theft.

If you go for an RFID blocking wallet, card or sleeve, the main thing is to buy a good one and test it to see if it works. With the right RFID blocker, you can leave your home without worry that someone is tracking your financial and personal data.