Why does my passport have rfid

An electronic, or chipped passport, looks just like the traditional passport issued to travelers for years, except for the symbol on the front cover. In other words, it has a tiny computer chip inside that works with RFID scanners. In addition, the act mandates that travelers without visas must have electronic passports to enter the country. Because of these stipulations, all United States passports have been ePassports since the end of All traditional United States passports without a chip have now expired.

Electronic passports allow officials to quickly verify your identity and travel authorization. They can simply scan the document with an RFID reader and use the embedded data to ensure that you are who you say you are. The chip in your ePassport contains all of the standard passport information: your name, address, nationality, gender, expiration date, and so on. It also includes a digital copy of your passport photograph. The digital photo enables facial recognition technology used in ports of entry.

The retina scanner in just about every spy movie is an example of biometric security. The fingerprint scanner on the back of your smartphone is another example of biometrics. Road Trips. Travel for Good. Photo Essays. Travelers Choice Awards. Weekend Getaways. Air Travel.

Business Travel. Packing Tips. The Future of Travel. Travel Etiquette. Travel Tips. Trending News. Sign up for our newsletter. Subscribe to magazine. Give a gift. Customer Service. Courtesy of Shutterstock The circle-inside-two-bars symbol on your passport signifies the presence of an RFID chip embedded in the cover. For corporate travel solutions, click here. Professional Travel, a Direct Travel Company remains your source for vacation planning services.

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. What do RFID chips contain? Is it really that easy for a scammer to get my information? What is the best way to protect my passport and my credit cards while traveling?

There are products available that will completely block scanners from getting your information. Shop for an RFID-blocking wallet, sleeve or bag before you leave on your next trip. Since , Swift Passport and Visa Services has been the go-to choice for busy travelers in need of expedited passports and visas.

Swift has some of the highest customer ratings and reviews in the industry, and with a network of partnerships nationwide, Swift Passport Services can reach clients in all 50 states. Swift is authorized by the US Department of State and has access to all foreign consulates nationwide in six major cities. Our team of experts would be happy to answer any questions you may have. A Chicago native, Laurie loves adventure travel, especially to the Caribbean.

She enjoys writing for the Swift Post, as well as for her personal blog, Spare Parts- www. I just moved and it seems my passport is missed placed. Can I buy a rfid detector to try and find it? Yes should work. You can boost the range on an NFC phone by simply using a piece of Sellotape coated with pyrolytic graphite: a good source is old phone screens and Iphone thermal pads.

Should look like a matt black covering when done.