A New Role for Smart Cards

In relation to their popularity in Europe and Asia, smart cards have not made much headway in the United States. However, the tragedy in New York has kindled interest in a different version of the smart card. The computer-chip card is now being seriously considered as an identity card. It could serve as a secure identity card at borders and to keep track of immigrants. Most important, it could contain a digital scan of a thumbprint or iris (as in some check-cashing machines). Associated Press correspondent, Jim Krane, cautions that the technology may not be as secure as required for such purposes. He notes that DirectTV has been unable to thwart "hackers" who have outwitted the company's smart card system to gain free access to TV channels requiring monthly fees. In spite of that experience, the smart cards are already being used by the military and by frequent international travelers. A Senate committee is considering a bill that would provide smart card visas for foreign visitors and immigrants. While such cards face technical problems, they also face public concerns about privacy.