RFID needed in money belt?

I recommend to wear this in Naples:

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3341/3326748507_eb44d597a0_o.jpg

Simple answer: NO

Roberto once again puts a smile on my face.

If you use them at home, then you'd probably take them with you. Nobody on our staff has ever bothered with RFDI products. I'm happy with a combination of money belt, awareness, and the protection rules offered by the credit cards themselves.

The RFID protection is marketing hype based on practically no real evidence of a problem. The RFID screening is a solution looking for a real problem. Your passport has absolutely nothing in it than can be stolen by electronic theft.

Roberto's armor idea is good for Italy.
Maybe also for Paris metro stations.

Or, a money belt.

Thanks guys, especially Roberto. This makes things simple.

Roberto,

Good one!

deacon,

It is technically possible to scan RFID-equipped credit cards and obtain information, and this has been demonstrated many times in tests (this video features someone that sells RFID protection, so consider the source). So far I've never heard of anyone actually being victimized this way, and I believe the risk is minimal.

The RFID cards that I'm using have a few "safety features".....

• the RFID portion of the card can be enabled or blocked by the Bank. If I don't want that feature, I can ask them to switch it off (Tellers at each local branch can do that on the spot).
• transactions are limited to a maximum of $50 each, and only two transactions per day are allowed.

The features above are only for one of the Bank cards I'm using, but I expect the same will apply to my credit union cards when they're rolled-out later this year.

If you're really concerned you might be victimized, you could always buy a few RFID protective sleeves as they don't cost a lot.

transactions are limited to a maximum of $50 each, and only two
transactions per day are allowed.

Not with my RFID debit card. If I use the chip for a transaction over $50 I'll simply need to sign for it. Yesterday I was in Manhattan and used the Paypass chip about ten times. When I was in Sydney last October I used RFID up to 20 times a day, no problems; it has near 100% acceptance over there. Same experience in London.

I would guess that few people have RFID cards worth protecting. RFID technology allows one to hold their card near a sensor that then accepts the payment. There is no physical contact. I have such a card for my CTA transit pass.

So the first question is do you have RFID cards? If not, then it's a complete waste of money.

Second question, if yes above, is whether there is a risk worth paying extra to secure against RFID readers? My answer would be no, but everyone's risk tolerance is different.

These additional comments have helped me relax. I want this first trip to Italy to be a fun and happy time. I tend not to worry too much about the "bad stuff" but do not want to be foolish. I will go with RS recommendation of use a money belt and pay attention when in crowded tourist places.

Michael S.,

"Not with my RFID debit card. If I use the chip for a transaction over $50 I'll simply need to sign for it."

I suppose each bank sets their own policies in that regard. I've only just started using "tap" cards, so it will be interesting to see what the policy is with other cards that I'll be receiving later this year.

All Australian issued tap and go cards have a limit of $100 per transaction. Above that amount a pin MUST be entered. There is zero liability in the event someone gets your card, provided you report any card loss or theft as soon as you are aware of it.