RFID technology uses radio waves to transmit data between tags and readers. An RFID system consists of two main components: the RFID tag (attached to objects needing identification) and the reader (which communicates with tags via radio waves to read or write data).

RFID cards operate across different frequency bands, each with distinct characteristics:

• Low Frequency (LF) 125 kHz: One of the earliest widely adopted RFID frequencies, LF cards dominate access control and attendance systems due to their mature technology and low cost. Their strong penetration capability makes them resistant to interference from metals, though their slower data transmission limits reading distances to just a few centimeters.
• High Frequency (HF) 13.56 MHz: The most prevalent RFID type today, HF cards comply with ISO 14443 and ISO 15693 standards, making them ideal for transportation cards, payment systems, and electronic IDs. With reading distances up to 10 cm and enhanced security features like encryption, they effectively prevent data theft. NFC (Near Field Communication) technology, used in mobile payments, falls under this category.
• Ultra-High Frequency (UHF) 860-960 MHz: Gaining rapid adoption, UHF cards offer extended reading ranges (several meters) and faster data transfer, enabling bulk scanning. While invaluable for supply chain and retail inventory management, they are more susceptible to interference from metals and liquids.

RFID cards have become ubiquitous across industries:

• Access Control: Offices and secured areas use RFID cards for efficient, tamper-proof entry management.
• Attendance Tracking: Employees clock in/out by tapping cards on readers, reducing manual errors.
• Payments: Public transit cards, credit cards, and loyalty programs leverage RFID for contactless transactions.
• Logistics: RFID tags on shipments enable real-time tracking, improving supply chain transparency.
• Asset Management: Hospitals and businesses monitor high-value equipment via RFID to prevent loss.
• Animal Identification: Implanted RFID tags help track pets and livestock.

Despite their convenience, RFID cards face risks like unauthorized scanning or cloning. To mitigate these threats, advanced safeguards have been developed:

• Encryption: Algorithms like AES and DES protect stored data from interception.
• Authentication: Password verification or digital certificates prevent card forgery.
• Tamper Resistance: Physical safeguards and digital signatures ensure data integrity.

As IoT and big data evolve, RFID systems are poised for smarter, more integrated, and secure applications:

• Enhanced Intelligence: Future cards may process data locally for advanced analytics.
• Multi-Technology Integration: Combining RFID with sensors or GPS could enable comprehensive monitoring.
• Stronger Security: Quantum encryption and biometric verification may become standard.

Potential use cases include smart city infrastructure management and personalized smart home controls. As RFID technology matures, its role in streamlining daily operations and securing sensitive data will only expand.