September 10, 2007

Groups Criticize DHS Use of 'Long-Range' RFID in ID Documents

A U.S. government plan to use long-range RFID technology as part of a border-crossing security initiative is coming under intensified fire by an industry group. Beginning Jan. 31, 2008, a valid driver's license won't be enough for travelers to pass between the United States and Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda, under new Department of Homeland Security (DHS) rules. A standard government passport will be required, or a birth certificate with driver's license. But as an alternative, DHS is moving forward with a pilot program that has states adding long-range RFID technology to driver's licenses. "Long-range RFID is meant for tracking packages in a warehouse," says Randy Vanderhoof, executive director of the Smart Card Alliance.

Plan to Use RFID in U.S. Border Control Draws Fire, Network World, September 8, 2007.