RFIDs typically are used to track shipping containers and cattle. Now they're being used for people. Think of them as super-bar codes, readable by RFID scanners. But unlike supermarket bar-code scanners, RFID scanners work through walls and can "skim" info from up to 10 metres away.

That doesn't mean they'll get your personal information. All that's on your RFID chip is your number, which brings up your file from the border agents' database. This database is considered secure, so Manitoba Attorney General Dave Chomiak calls the cards "secure," too. But even if we assume the database will remain secure forever, there are still enormous insecurities in RFIDs themselves.

Manitoba has ignored these options. Instead, privacy protection comes in the form of a plastic sleeve that blocks RFID scanners. Ditch the sleeve (which bulks up the card to the point where it won't fit into most wallets' ID slits) and you're entirely vulnerable.