Evaluating the Security and Privacy of Near Field Communication – Case: Public Transportation

Abstract

Public transportation has been the killer application of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology in recent years. However, RFID-based Near Field Communication (NFC) is gaining the advantage by challenging RFID technology in its own environment. NFC enables the enhanced use of value-adding features, such as obtaining a ticket over-the-air, by using the already existing Internet channel of the mobile device. Smart posters on the other hand provide an improved service initialization method for the mobile device that enhances the functionalities of the existing user interface. This article describes security and privacy challenges related to NFC. We describe the use of NFC in smart posters within services related to public transportation and discuss about further NFC research activities. By providing information to consumers about the security and privacy issues related to NFC, it is possible to increase their awareness and perhaps prevent some potential current or future threats facing the technology.