tech+info+resources underground

RFID credit cards are taking the nation. Also known as Radio Frequency Identification, RFID for short, these cards allow you to make purchases with your credit card without even having to type in a pin number, swipe your card through a reader, or even sign for the sale. Instead, a coil radio transmitter insider your cardimagine how small it must be!sends out a tagged radio signature, that then gets transformed by the way you move your finger over the card.

In essence, your personal way of “swiping” your card with your finger gives the signal a distinct “shape” that acts like an electronic fingerprint. In theory, no one else could have this electronic fingerprint. It’s not so much theory anymore. Some credit card companies are already experimenting with RFID technology. You can use them at gas stations, convenience stores, maybe even vending machines.

But is this technology as secure as all the experts say it is? It may be, but the thought of not signing for your purchase may make you have the heebie-jeebies. Also, usually with regular credit cards, the cashier is supposed to look at your card and compare signatures, to make sure you are you, each and every time you make a purchase. With RFID cards, you forgo this extra step of security.

Another issue with RFID cards, and one you won’t hear the credit card companies make, is that RFID cards make it possible to too easily to spend and drive up your debt. If all a person has to do is wave their card at the fast food restaurant, to get gas, to buy that expensive new flat-screen televisions set, then chances are they may start waving their card more and more. In the long run, that will make a ton more money for the credit card companies. But for the buyer, that could mean a long lifetime of living in debt.

Another potential issue with RFID technology is that it could be the next wave of the future for everything from passports to security to get into buildings. It could be used possibly to even track your movements throughout the day, the week, and the year. Just imagineyour car, every building that you enter into, your house, your workall of them have RFID security technology. That makes for a chance for Big Brother to keep an eye on you. A scary thought, and pretty far-fetched, yes, but a possible reality none the less thanks to RFID.

Joshua Shapiro recommends Find Credit Cards to find a Citibank credit card offer that’s tailored to suit your financial needs.

If you own your own company and need to get started, a business credit card can be just the way to manage your finances and get the things that your office needs. But with all of the companies out there, how do you ever choose?

What do you need?

When you’re first starting a business, your needs are much different than if you’re already established. New businesses need to purchase supplies and equipment, while established businesses just need to maintain their current daily needs. With these thoughts in mind, you can start looking for a business credit card that will help you with whatever point you’re at in your business.

How much do you need?

If you have a business that needs to make constant purchases, you need to have a business credit card that has a higher limit or no limit at all. The trick with a higher limit is that these cards tend to expect to have the balance paid in full each month so if your business is already established and able to do that, then that’s a viable option. If not, you may want to look for a business credit card that works with the growth of your business’ needs.

What perks do you want?

Just like any other business credit card, you want to see if there’s anything that you gain from using the card. Many businesses like to choose a business credit card that allows them to accumulate airline miles that can then be redeemed for business or personal flights. You might also want to find a business credit card that gives discounts with certain retailers or offers a cash back incentive throughout the year.

How convenient is it?

And your business credit card needs to have a lot of flexibility for your business needs. You might want to find out if there are ways to use your credit card through credit card checks or by cash advances. Some business like a credit card that is accepted at most retailers (Mastercard and Visa are widely accepted).

If you accidentally go over your limit, you need to know what will happen to your account. If your credit card is stolen, you need to be able to replace it immediately and not be responsible for any charges that are incurred.

The point is that if your have a business credit card, you need to be able to use it whenever and for whatever purpose your business warrants.

Beth Derkowitz recommends Find Credit Cards for finding the best business credit card for your company.