The U.S. government is launching a program this week with RFID-enabled passport cards to make it easier and more secure for U.S. citizens to get back home from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean.

Until now, U.S. travelers could re-enter the country with just a driver's license and proof of citizenship. But with tighter security to deter terrorists, the State Department is requiring these cards that are equipped with RFID technology.

About 1 million have been issued, costing $45 for those 16 years of age and older, a cheaper alternative to a regular passport that costs $100.

While it is all part of the effort to better scrutinize U.S. citizens returning home from other countries mostly on U.S. land borders, there are many questions about how efficient the cards really will be.

Critics say the card poses security and privacy risks. The card could be read by long-range RFID equipment and the information stolen because the data is not encrypted, they argue.

For more on these RFID cards:
- check out this Computerworld article