On Tue, 30 Mar 2010 09:24:33 +0100
Roland Perry wrote:
Why would the FSB bother, they know the passport information already (if
they have an interest in someone).

Probably. But you never know.

And the difference is what exactly? They can both use either RF or magnetic
fields to power up the chip. Simple RFID chips dish out an id number and thats
about it whereas things like Oyster and the passports are a bit more
intelligent. It makes no difference to the argument about remote powering up.

It's all about the power/antenna/etc required to make it a practical
proposition.

Ok , we can debate whether my original assertion that it could be read
from metres away forever - but heres something much more likely. Someone
is sitting at an airport with their passport either in a case or their coat.
Someone else sits down right next to them with a briefcase containing a reader.
They could probably get it within inches of where they expect the passport
to be. Now don't tell me thats improbable and it wouldn't surprise me if
it hasn't already been done.

B2003