Do RFID Blocking Card Cases Damage Credit Cards?

Fake news is everywhere -- even in the wallet world. If you’re undecided about buying an RFID-blocking wallet because you’ve heard that they can damage your credit cards, we’re here to do some serious debunking.

What is RFID?

RFID is the acronym for “radio frequency identification”. It’s a type of technology that allows data to be read through radio waves. In a nutshell, information stored on credit cards, passports, etc. can be retrieved wirelessly.

What is RFID skimming?

RFID skimming is when a criminal uses a scanner to steal someone’s data. The danger with RFID is that someone simply needs to be close enough to “copy” information written on an RFID card. This means someone standing next to you could steal your data and you wouldn’t even notice.

It’s worth mentioning, however, that RFID skimming only works for cards that have been embedded with an RFID chip. To check if you have an RFID card, look for the radio waves symbol on your credit card. It should look like the symbol that you see when you’re connected to WiFi.

RFID skimming also puts at risk passports that were issued starting in 2007. This is why you should consider purchasing a passport cover with RFID-blocking technology, such as the Trayvax Explorer Passport Wallet.

What is an RFID-blocking wallet?

Fortunately, radio waves are relatively easy to block. RFID-blocking wallets are embedded with carbon fiber or metal material that blocks the electromagnetic field around your credit card, passport, and so on.

Do RFID-blocking wallets damage credit cards?

Contrary to popular belief, RFID-blocking wallets do not damage your credit cards. This is because RFID chips are passive, requiring energy from a scanner to be active. However, your credit card can get damaged due to other common causes, which we’ll talk about below.

How can you protect your credit card from damage?

Don’t blame your RFID-blocking card case for damaging your credit cards. Chances are, your credit card stopped working simply because you sat on it. To protect your credit card from damage, be sure to follow the following tips:

#1 Keep it away from other credit cards

The most common cause for damaged credit cards is other credit cards. When credit cards are placed together, they will scratch against each other when they’re pulled in and out. This results in a ruined magnetic strip.

The solution? Buy a bi-fold wallet for men that has enough card slots, such as the Trayvax Roam Clutch. Remember, don’t “sandwich” your credit cards together. Give each card its own designated space.

#2 Don’t sit on your wallet

Ideally, you shouldn’t put your wallet in your back pocket. Not only does is this a literal pain in the butt, but it also puts your credit cards at risk of breaking. Instead, put it in your front pocket. This prevents your credit cards, as well as other cards, from warping or snapping into two. Plus, it will prevent your wallet from being deformed.

If you really have to put your wallet in your back pocket, at least use a metal wallet like the Trayvax Contour Wallet. Its stainless steel plates act as a protective shield so that your cards stay flat.

#3 Don’t keep your cards with your coins

Keep your cards and coins separate at all costs. When coins are stored along with credit cards, they will scratch your cards until they’re unusable. Coins can even poke holes into your credit cards especially if you sit on your wallet.

Look into wallets such as the Trayvax Renegade Wallet. It’s a zipper wallet that has a separate space for cards, cash, and coins. And, if possible, avoid using cash to pay so that you won’t have to add loose change to your wallet each time you make a purchase.

 

#4 Use a well-designed wallet

When shopping for a wallet, don’t choose the first one that you see at the store. You should take the time to evaluate each wallet, taking into consideration its style, material, shape, and so on. How many card slots does it have? Can it be closed completely? Is it lined with microfiber?

By asking the right questions, you can find the best bi-fold wallet for men that’s on budget and protects your credit cards.

The bottom line 

RFID-blocking wallets won’t damage your credit card, but the wrong wallet will. Always use a wallet that’s designed to carry your credit card, or else, you’ll have to ask your credit card company to replace your card countless times a year.