Authentication enhancement of RFID card using an electronically clippable shield and fingerprint-biometrics

Abstract

Radio frequency identification (RFID) is a technology that employs basic identifier of an object embedded in a chip, transmitted via radio wave, for identification. An RFID Card, responds to query irrespective of ‘Who’ holds the card; like a key to a door. Since an attacker can possess the card, access to such object can therefore be easily compromised. This security breach is classified as an unauthorized use of card, and it forms the bedrock for RFID card compromise especially in access control. As an authentication enhancement mechanism, this study designed and developed a method termed BIO-THENTIC Card, that integrates three existing mitigation methods which are physical clip tag, Faraday shield and fingerprint authentication; to prevent and also protect this weakness. The Bio-Thentic Card was fabricated, tested and assessed in line with the known threats, and attacks; and it was observed to proffer substantive solution to unauthorized use of RFID Card.