Protecting Your Cards: RFID Blocking and Skimming Prevention

Credit card skimming is still one of the most common ways criminals steal payment information. As more cards now include contactless technology, businesses and consumers are increasingly looking for simple ways to keep payments secure. This guide explains what skimming is, how it happens, and how technologies such as RFID blocking can help protect cardholders.

What is credit card skimming?

Credit card skimming is when data stored on a payment card is copied without permission. Once stolen, the card’s details can be used to create a cloned card or make fraudulent purchases.

It typically happens in two ways:

• A physical device is attached to a payment terminal such as a cashpoint or card machine
• Card details are captured electronically using wireless readers

Traditional skimming required close contact with the card, but modern methods can be completely contactless.

How contactless cards are skimmed

Most contactless cards contain an RFID chip that lets a reader securely process a transaction. Skimming happens when someone uses an unauthorised RFID reader to attempt to access that chip. In reality, the range of this technology is very short and modern encryption makes it extremely difficult to extract meaningful data. However, the potential risk has encouraged many people and businesses to explore further ways to stay protected.

If you’d like to understand how RFID cards work, visit our RFID cards page.

What is RFID blocking?

RFID blocking is a method used to prevent unauthorised devices from reading data from RFID-enabled cards. It typically works by creating a physical barrier around the card that prevents radio signals from reaching the chip. This barrier can be a specialised material or mechanical shield. When in place, the RFID signal is unable to travel, so the card cannot be read. RFID-blocking is widely used in wallets, sleeves and card carriers, particularly for credit cards and corporate ID badges.

Learn more about contactless technology in our RFID vs NFC guide.

Do you need RFID-blocking?

RFID skimming remains possible in theory, but in most real-world situations, modern payment cards are already well protected. EMV chip standards, encryption and short read distances make skimming very difficult and highly unlikely.

However, some organisations choose to use RFID-blocking accessories as a precaution, particularly when handling sensitive credentials or visitor passes. A good quality RFID-blocking card carrier can add an extra layer of reassurance without changing how a card is used day to day.

Other ways to prevent credit card skimming

Check terminals carefully
If a card reader looks damaged, loose or unusual, avoid using it. Criminals often attach false fronts to ATMs or POS terminals to capture magnetic stripe data.

Use trusted payment terminals
Use established payment points where possible and avoid unfamiliar or poorly monitored locations.

Monitor statements
Check account activity regularly and report anything suspicious immediately. Early detection greatly reduces fraud impact.

Consider virtual or mobile wallets
Mobile wallets encrypt card data and use tokenisation, reducing how often your physical card is needed.

Keep cards in a secure case
A protective wallet or RFID-blocking card holder makes it harder for someone to intercept radio-frequency signals, providing additional peace of mind.

Final thoughts

Credit card skimming is rare, but understanding how it works helps businesses and individuals take sensible precautions. Protective accessories such as RFID-blocking sleeves can add an extra layer of defence, alongside regular account monitoring and safe payment practices.

If you’re looking to explore secure RFID card options alongside sustainable material choices, visit our RFID cards page or speak to our team.