NFC tags, RFID tags and QR codes are the three most common ways that jails use tagging for guard tour checkpoints. All of them can pair with a mobile device and allow for scanning tags. Choosing the best technology for your guard tour system depends on a correctional facility’s budget, needs and priorities.
Which technology is better for jail guard tour systems: NFC, RFID, or QR codes?
RFID, NFC and QR codes can all be used for both guard tours and inmate tracking in correctional facilities. There are advantages and disadvantages for each one.
NFC (Near-Field Communication)
NFC is a wireless technology that allows data to be transmitted over short distances. NFC guard tour systems are often considered the best fit for most correctional facilities. They are very durable and hard to tamper with, an important consideration for checkpoints exposed to inmates. Also, they will function well in all weather conditions and can be installed outdoors. NFC tags are less expensive than RFID tags and more durable than QR codes.
NFC tagging is instantaneous. Guards must physically tap their device to the tag to log their visit, ensuring that each checkpoint is properly visited. For inmate tracking and counting, an NFC tag associated with inmate identity can be embedded in each inmate’s wristband or ID card. Officers physically scan the wristband or card with their mobile device to account for that inmate at any given time. NFC tags require close contact, which reduces the chance of overlooking a compromised checkpoint and the risk of unauthorized tracking or a signal interception.
Another major advantage is that NFC tags do not require wiring or a power source. They are powered by the phone’s battery with each tap.
RFID (Radio Frequency Identification)
RFID is a technology that transmits data over medium range distances using radio waves. RFID guard tour tags are nearly indestructible by weather, tampering, heat or harsh chemicals. However, a guard tour system using RFID is generally more expensive, so if your checkpoints are not vulnerable to these conditions, it may not be worth the added expense. Also, RFID tags may require an external power source, which means they must be wired for electricity, and can therefore be much more difficult and expensive to install.
An important feature of RFID tags is their ability to be scanned from a distance. This may be an advantage for locations that are difficult or hazardous to access, but it can also be a disadvantage. With a guard tour system, physical proximity is key to ensuring an appropriate check. The longer range of RFID tags could allow guards to not visit every checkpoint up close. For inmate tracking, it makes the system more susceptible to security risks, unintended scans and false reads. As opposed to NFC tags, RFID tags can be scanned accidentally, and they may inadvertently encourage guards to cut their rounds short.
QR (Quick Response)
QR patrol guard tour systems have the lowest upfront expenses, but they come with a maintenance cost. They are highly susceptible to vandalism, light, moisture and general wear and tear, so a facility will have to dedicate considerable time to inspecting and repairing them. Another downside to scanning QR codes is that it takes a few seconds longer per checkpoint as compared to RFID and NFC tags. Finally, QR codes have one fatal security flaw: any officer can take a photo of the code, and then scan it from anywhere. This flaw defeats the entire goal of improving accountability.
What are the advantages of NFC over RFID guard tour systems in corrections security patrols?
In security patrols at jails, prisons and detention centers, the importance of a physical checkpoint visit cannot be overstated. Small details that would indicate a problem can be unnoticed from a distance, which is why the close proximity required by NFC tags offers an advantage over RFID tags. A system based on scanning NFC tags ensures that every checkpoint is physically visited and inspected.
NFC tags have a lower risk of cloning or interception, making them less of a security risk than RFID tags that are not properly encrypted.
Are QR codes a reliable tagging method for correctional facilities?
QR code tags can work for guard tour checkpoints, and they have the lowest upfront system cost. However, they have several notable weaknesses. First, they are vulnerable to tampering and damage from wear and tear, vandalism and weather. This increases their maintenance costs, as they will need to be more regularly inspected for damage and frequently replaced. Also, they also do not scan as quickly as RFID or NFC tags, adding minutes to every round and slowing the pace of patrol activities. Finally, they are easily duplicated and therefore present a security risk.
While QR codes offer an inexpensive, low-tech option for some facilities, RFID or NFC tags are more reliable for high-security environments.
How does NFC scanning improve accountability?
An NFC scanning system can incorporate a significant amount of guard tour automation, which increases accountability around verifying that correctional officers are completing their rounds as required for compliance.
Officers do not have to rely on their memories to remember their cell checks, medical or suicide watches, or manually log incident reports, as the NFC device and tag system can automatically record entries with a tap.
For inmate tracking, an NFC system can quickly identify an inmate unaccounted for, saving valuable time previously lost to consulting multiple sources to confirm the identity of the missing inmate.
Finally, automated digital records with information collected from NFC tags are much harder to falsify and easier to defend.
Find the Right Guard Tour Technology for Your Jail
Understanding the technology options for guard tour systems will help you select the right solution for your facility. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions about the advantages and disadvantages of RFID tags, NFC tags and QR codes when it comes to guard tour and cell check systems.
Life Check Systems is an NFC guard tour solution.