Stylish Defense: The Importance of RFID Purses

Stylish Defense: The Importance of RFID Purses

In today's world, while firearms protect us, we also need defense against modern-day threats like RFID technology exploited by new-age pickpockets targeting contactless payments. You have probably heard a lot about new-age pickpockets who take advantage of RFID technology used for contactless payments today. Let us break it down for you what RFID means, what you can do to protect yourself and RFID purse options. 

What is RFID?

RFID, or Radio-Frequency Identification, consists of microchips and antennas, present in items like credit cards, licenses and passports. These chips wirelessly transmit signals to compatible readers, aiding identity confirmation or transactions. However, there's no off switch, leaving them susceptible to "skimming" – the unauthorized reading and duplication of card information through your purse.

 This technology has been around for a long time and now it has made its way into a variety of items including credit cards, key fobs, driver’s licenses and passports. RFID chips send out electromagnetic signals wirelessly to compatible readers to do things such as confirming the person’s identity or paying for a purchase. In the case of your passport, they can even broadcast your photo. A number of states are now also issuing special driver’s licenses “enhanced” with long-range RFID chips.

But there’s no “off button” on any RFID enhanced device. Which leaves the technology open to theft by “skimming.” In a world where contactless payments are the norm, our card details are vulnerable to being intercepted.

RFID skimming is a form of digital theft which enables information from RFID-equipped credit cards to be read and duplicated. According to Loss Prevention Media, “Typically, it involves the illegitimate reading of RFID-enabled credit cards (or other devices) at a distance in order to download the card’s information. From there, the information can be written to a new blank card, which operates in the same manner as the original, legitimate card.”

What Can I Do to Protect Myself?

It’s important to understand that not every credit card has RFID technology embedded in it. But for those that do, RFID purses and wallets are the answer.

At GTM, we use a third generation RFID lining used in all our bags, either lining an interior pocket or outside front panel which blocks RFID readers from stealing information held on cards within the purse. Essentially, it provides a barrier between your cards and any potential scanners -- like a “shark cage” around the chip that radio waves cannot penetrate. 10 years ago RFID started as simple layers of tinfoil encased in plastic. It was thick and noisy. Today it is finely woven with the lining.  Look for the small black and red sewn in the label showing the RFID symbol.

Gun Tote’n Mamas RFID Purses

Gun Tote’n Mamas products offer a padded holster compartment, slash resistant straps made with 11ply steel cable, nylon zippers,  AND protection of your personal information through RFID purses. 

Here are some of our top picks this spring to block any thieves from stealing your information:

The Crossbody Satchel in Distressed Buffalo is a perfect crossbody RFID purse option. The more this leather is used, the better it gets. Stay safe and stylish. 

Introduced last year, our Sling Waist Pack, Cowhide is full of versatility and cuteness – but don’t underestimate the power and protection of this bag! 

WIth a wide range of colors and patterns available, GTM’s RFID Pouch offers an extra layer of protection and is the perfect on-the-go companion to keep your personal information safe. 

Women want the perfect handbag, but more importantly, women want to feel safe, equipped, empowered and confident stepping out in style. Stay safe and protected with your RFID purse!