Tool to backup, modify and clone ePassport released

[ukcrypto@chiark.greenend.org.uk]

Quoting Casper.Dik@sun.com:

>
>> 1. The passport is detectable from 1 or 2 metres away, maybe
>> pickpockets or robbers will preferentially target victims known to
>> have a passport with them.
>
>
> Since you typically only want to show the passport when there's a reason,
> would a "microswitch" which enables the RFID chip only when the passport
> is open, help?

A mechanical device to increase the risk of a failing passport?  No  
thanks.  Especially a: seeing the battering some passports get b:  
worrying about the consequences of a 'broken' passport in some  
countries.