June 02, 2005
RFID to Make International Travel Easier?
Today Germany announced its plan to be the first European country to issue a biometric passport. Beginning in November, the non-contact RFID chip within the passport will hold a digital photo of the passport holder, followed by the inclusion of both index fingerprints beginning in March of 2007. The BSI maintains that the chip will only be discernible by certified reading devices that are able to calculate the chip's access code. Despite its reported safety, however, concerns are being expressed about citizens' confidentiality and security. Proponents, including the US government, insist that integration of the technology will make travel safer and more efficient. According to ComputerWorld:
The European Union has asked for an extension of the Oct. 26 deadline imposed by Washington to implement new U.S. rules on issuing biometric passports. Washington is demanding that all passports issued by Australia, Japan and EU member states after this deadline have biometric security elements for holders to enjoy visa-free U.S. visits of up to 90 days.
Read More:Germany Plans Passport with Biometric Data in November
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