When it comes to RFID and potential consumer privacy concerns, entrepreneurs are already jumping into the fray.

Shortly after we reported last week on the supposed concessions made by American Express to CASPIAN, a group focused on consumer privacy and against many potential uses of RFID (see RFID News: Consumer Privacy Group and American Express Tussle over Technology to Track in-Store Shoppers ) , the enterprising group at Smart Tools contacted us about their RFID Shield product, which consumers can buy to put around their American Express or potentially other credit cards, blocking the ability for readers to get to the embedded chips.

It’s interesting. For just $4.00 each, or four for $10.00, you get what is basically a fairly transparent sleeve or jacket into which you insert your credit, as shown below.

RFID Shield Blocks Tags in Credit Cards from Being Energized by Readers

We’re not sure exactly what the sleeve is made of, but it is some material that prevents the energy from RIFD readers to get to and thus “turn on” passive tags. To actually use the credit card to buy something, or to let it be read, simply take the card put of the sleeve.

The company notes related products could also be used to block reading of chips embedded in passports, documents, or other items.