Since there is much talk in library RFID circles about how we can broaden the use of RFID tags from just in-library use to further up and down the supply chain, from printers to distributors to libraries to interlibrary loan to discards/recycling, the report summarized in this press release may be of interest to us all.http://www.nist.gov/public_affairs/releases/rfidsecurity.html
To quote:“The new NIST publication focuses on RFID applications for asset management, tracking, matching, and process and supply chain control. Its list of recommended practices for ensuring the security and privacy of RFID systems includes:
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encryption of radio signals when feasible;
authentication of approved users of RFID systems;
shielding RFID tags or tag reading areas with metal screens or films to prevent unauthorized access;
audit procedures, logging and time stamping to help in detecting security breaches; and
tag disposal and recycling procedures that permanently disable or destroy sensitive data. “
Some of these recommendations would be pretty hard to implement in a library, since we are working with hundreds to thousands of patrons and public access to our buildings. Many would need to have the cooperation of vendors.