As more major financial and technology companies investing in near-field communication (NFC), mobile commerce may soon become a major part of the worldwide society. With commerce evolving, new dangers are being discovered that put people’s money at risk. NFC technology, essentially, transforms any smart phone into a mobile payment device by enabling that mobile device to store its owner’s financial information. Smart phones are popular targets for theft, but today’s criminals are adapting to a new world where technology has become a significant force.
Pickpocketing has existed since time immemorial and has long been a problem for those living in crowded cities around the world. Throughout the years, pickpockets have adapted to the changing trends of society, finding ways to circumvent the security measures people take to protect themselves and their possessions. With more NFC-enabled mobile devices entering the commercial market, criminals have found a way to use technology to steal information from people by proximity, making pickpocketing a nearly effortless crime.
Paul Ducklin, head of technology for Sophos, an Internet security firm, notes that electronic pickpocketing is accomplished using a device known as an RFID skimmer. This device allows criminals to steal information from a wireless mobile device simply by being close to it. While most skimmers require criminals to, essentially, brush up against a mobile device in order to catch information, these devices are becoming more sophisticated.
Mobile commerce is gaining momentum around the world and consumers will have to take steps to protect themselves from a new generation of criminals looking to take advantage of new technologies.
