RFID Passports

Explanation
In order to reinforce security, the US Congress has legislated to issue passports with RFID chips or Integrated circuits (ICs). It is being implemented by complying with the current international standards developed for a secure travel document. The US E-passports have an RFID chip embedded in them. The information contained in the chip is the same as that of the information mentioned in the data page of the travel document, which comprises the individual's full name, date of birth, the date on which the passport was issued, and expiration date.

The biometric identifier is in the digital image format. The digital image is of the passport photo that is on the chip that uses face recognition technology for the identity verification of the passport bearer at the entry ports.

A digital signature is a kind of electronic signature. In digital signature, a mathematical algorithm is repeatedly used to check the authenticity and integrity of a message. A message may be in the form of a credit card transaction, an email, or a digital document. Digital signatures are considered more secure than other electronic signature forms.

A unique chip identification number is placed on the chip wherein every single manufacturer has to only program the tags with unique numbers.

The E-passports incorporate the Public key infrastructure (PKI) technology to prevent modification of information stored in the chip. It not only helps in the authentication, but also validates the data stored in the chip, thereby assisting with passport inspection and alleviating border control system.

Verified Answer
Yes. For protective measures, a unique identification number and a digital signature are also contained in the chip to safeguard the data from alteration.

The RFID chip is deployed on the passports in compliance with the latest international standards for secure travel documents. The RFID technology is used with public key infrastructure (PKI) to ensure authentication, protection from alteration, and security across borders.

The US government has proposed E-passports, which are traditional passports with the RFID chip or Integrated circuits (IC) embedded on their back covers. The chip contains the same data given on the passport's data page.

A biometric identifier is also present on the chip in the digital image format of an individual's passport photograph.

A unique chip identification number on the chip is a number that contains a unique manufacturer number and a unique chip number. Along with this, a digital signature is also present on the chip. It is an electronic signature that utilizes a mathematical algorithm.