About Access Card Protection

Keep your keys digital — but keep your security physical.

Key cards (access cards) make life simpler — no jingling keys, quick entry, and easy access control across apartments, offices, gyms and other secure facilities. But that convenience comes with a risk: many access cards broadcast on the 125 kHz RFID band, and criminals can quietly read and clone those cards using portable scanners. Once cloned, a card gives unlawful access — and can expose people, property, and sensitive data to real harm.

The Risk: How Key Cards Are Attacked

Access systems typically rely on a wall-mounted reader (Building Access Control Card Reader — BACCR) that verifies a card’s unique code before granting entry. The weak link is the radio signal: using a compatible 125 kHz RFID reader, attackers can skim the card’s code and make an identical clone. A BACCR cannot reliably tell the difference between an original card and a cloned one — so a cloned card effectively becomes a master key.

• Skimming is instant and silent — victims rarely notice.
• Cloned cards grant physical access to secure spaces, creating risks to people and property.
• Any personal data stored on access cards can be harvested and reused for identity fraud or social engineering.
• A single successful skim can compromise entire buildings and tenant security.

How Skimguard A-Lock Stops Cloning

Skimguard A-Lock is purpose-built to protect 125 kHz access cards. Using our patented eField technology, A-Lock creates a 9mm electronic jamming barrier around your key card that prevents intrusive scans on the 125 kHz band.

• Passive most of the time, active when needed. A-Lock remains passive until it detects a hostile scan. When a skimmer attempts to read the card, A-Lock draws on that intrusive energy and powers into an active defence mode that jams the scan — rendering cloning attempts ineffective.
• Automatic and maintenance-free. No batteries, no apps, no upkeep — simply carry A-Lock beside your access card in a wallet, lanyard, or badge holder.
• Designed for everyday life. Slim and discreet so it fits alongside cards without adding bulk, yet powerful enough to shield your workplace access and identity data.

👉 Skimguard solutions: For 125 kHz (LF) access cards — common in workplaces, apartments, gyms, and some hotels — the A-Lock provides targeted eField shielding. For complete coverage, pair it with the Global Protect Card for payment cards or the Passport Sleeve/Passport Traka for travel documents.

Where to Keep A-Lock

For best protection, store your access card next to A-Lock in your wallet, purse, or lanyard. When you need to enter a building, remove the card and tap as usual. A-Lock’s design means it protects both at rest (in your bag, pocket or on a lanyard) and lets you access doors when you need to.

Practical Tips for Organisations and Individuals

• Individuals: Treat key cards like keys — keep them stored with A-Lock when not in use and report lost or stolen cards immediately.
• Workplaces & Admins: Consider card lifecycle policies (regular reissue, limited access windows) and combine physical protections like A-Lock with administrative controls (logging, two-factor for high-risk areas).
• Travel & Shared Spaces: If you carry an access card when travelling or in shared living spaces, use A-Lock to stop opportunistic skimming at events, co-working spaces or transit hubs.

Pairing & Product Links

Protecting access cards is part of a broader security posture. Pair A-Lock with these Skimguard products for layered protection:

• Global Protect Card — protect contactless payment cards in the same wallet.
• Travel Pod — a slim, everyday sleeve for cards and cash.
• Passport Traka / Passport Sleeve — protect travel documents when you’re away from home.

Why Skimguard for Access Card Protection?

• Patented eField technology engineered for 125 kHz protection.
• Passive, battery-free design — protection that just works.
• Designed for real-world use: slim, durable, and tested.
• Part of Skimguard’s trusted family of protection products — engineered in Australia and backed by a commitment to ongoing innovation.

Learn more & stay safe

Read real-world stories and technical deep dives on our Blog and explore how to strengthen your personal and workplace security with Skimguard products. If you manage a building or a business, contact us for guidance on best practices and bulk protection options.