The new ePassports are designed to facilitate international travel by allowing automatic identity verification, faster immigration inspections and greater border protection and security. Each new passport will contain a radio-frequency identification (RFID) chip, which contains an encrypted copy of the printed information on the passport -- including the bearer's name, date of birth, validity period and a digital photo of the individual. The digital photo allows the use of facial recognition technology at border crossings to authenticate the passport holder's identity.
"Even though there are inherent security measures built into these new ePassports, we recognize the public's concern regarding identity-theft and 'tracking,' and have designed these stylish wallets with multiple layers of RF shielding material in a form factor that keeps the ePassport securely closed -- completely shielding unwanted access to the user's personal information," offered Geb Masterson, president of Kena Kai. "The fact is that these passports are issued for ten years, and it would be foolish to think that someone could not hack these security measures within the life of the passport, if they have not already," added Masterson.
The U.S. began issuing electronic passports to diplomats and other government workers in late 2005. As of October 26, 2006, any passport issued by the U.S., or a "U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP)" member country, must be an International Civil Aviation Organization-compliant e-Passport for VWP travelers to be eligible to enter the United States without a visa.
Under the VWP, most travelers from the 27 countries participating in the VWP do not need a visa to enter the United States if they are traveling for tourism or business for 90 days or less.
