San Luis Obispo, California

By Maggie DeWitt As smart cards proliferate in North America, Europe and Asia, so do the unintended transmission and theft of personal data—despite encryption technology. Research shows that a reading device with off-the-shelf components, and costing as little as $50, can intercept private information when passed near a handbag or wallet. This month’s mystery product is the latest weapon in the war against virtual personal assault. Use the following clues to guess what the product is: • It completely shields personal and financial information on a smart card’s memory chip. • It is an innovative blend of materials resulting in an easy-to-print