Is RFID REALLY a Good Solution for Container Security?

Filed in archive Privacy and Security on June 28, 2006

We all know that cargo container security is an issue receiving increasing attention. (Let's hope it is receiving more attention from the good guys than the bad guys!)

Every time you turn around, it seems someone is highlighting the weaknesses of port security in the U.S. And I suspect much of the rest of the world is in the same boat (forgive the pun).

Some have suggested that RFID tags can play a role in securing cargo. Of course, "securing cargo" has many meanings, and it is wise to sort out the definition of security and exactly what it is you are trying to accomplish.

Are you trying to prevent cargo from being stolen?

Are you trying to track cargo that might be lost?

Are you trying to detect tampering with cargo containers en route?

An article in Industrial Market Trends suggests that it is important to be clear on your goals, and offers 10 tips for choosing cargo seals, such as this one:

If you don't understand the differences of seal types, you won't know what type you need. The three most commonly used seals: indicative, which change shape or visual composition when tampered with; barrier, which include bolt seals, lock bars and cable seals; and electronic, which are embedded with an RFID chip that provides tracking capability. If cut, locking bars and cable seals cannot be re-secured.

AIMGlobal also has an article on the topic of RFID used to secure cargo, that may be worth checking out.

ABI Research has been studying the topic of using RFID in container security for some time, too. See the short article here at RFID News.

Of course, not everyone agrees that RFID is an appropriate solution to secure cargo, as this article in Supply Chain Management Review suggests.