GateKeeper USA, Inc.

ROCKVILLE, MD, January 12, 2010 – GateKeeper USA, Inc. (Pink Sheets: GTKP), announced today that it is unaffected by the recent shortage of Helium 3. It appears that GateKeeper USA’s competitors are facing other new hurdles. It was recently reported by the New York Times that a program to detect plutonium and uranium in US ports has stalled because the US has run out of Helium 3. Helium 3 is a light non-radioactive isotope of helium that is formed when tritium decays. Helium 3 is a crucial raw material for the screening machines that were to be utilized in shipping ports for the detection of nuclear weapons.

“The shortage of Helium 3 does not have any effect on GateKeeper USA’s CAMS devices ability to detect radiation, as GateKeeper USA is not reliant on this antiquated method of detection,” stated John Leontakianakos, Senior Vice President of GateKeeper USA.

About GateKeeper USA, Inc.
GateKeeper USA, located in Rockville, Maryland, is engaged in the maritime container industry as it relates to container security and protection from potential terrorist attacks. The initial focus of the company is the deployment of a proprietary shipping container security device known as the GateKeeper Container Automated Monitoring System (CAMS). The Company has employed proprietary detection and identification technologies. The technologies to being utilized by the Company provide rapid, automatic and specific real-time analysis, identification and quantification of the chemical, biological and radio active compounds whether in liquid, solid or gaseous states. For more information, visit our website at www.GateKeeperUSAInc.com.

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), and as such, may involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements, which are based on certain assumptions and describe future plans, strategies, and expectations, are generally identifiable by the use of words such as “believe,” “expect,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “project,” or similar expressions. These forward-looking statements relate to, among other things, expectations of the business environment in which the Company operates, projections of future performance, potential future performance, perceived opportunities in the market, and statements regarding the Company’s mission and vision. The Company’s actual results, performance, and achievements may differ materially from the results, performance, and achievements expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements due to a wide range of factors.

ROCKVILLE, MD, December 28, 2009 – GateKeeper USA, Inc. (Pink Sheets: GTKP), announced today that its Advanced Container Security Device (ACSD) commercially known as the CAMS device has the ability to detect PETN. “The explosive that nearly brought down Northwest Airlines flight 253 is extremely powerful… A little more than 100g of PETN could destroy a car.” “The device allegedly used by Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab involved a” “plastic container” “reportedly, with 80g of PETN” according to guardian.co.uk. (http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2009/dec/27/petn-pentaerythritol-trinitrate-explosive)

“This is the same substance used by Richard Reid, the ‘shoe bomber’ in 2001 on a flight to Miami. In August, Al-Qaida attempted to assassinate Saudi Arabia’s counter terrorism chief, Prince Mohammed bin Nayef with a PETN-based explosive device,” stated Mr. Richard Sowden, Director of Technology for CSL, LLC, GateKeeper USA’s strategic partner.

The technology incorporated within GateKeeper USA’s CAMS device is able to detect PETN in minute’ trace quantities, utilizing a much smaller footprint and offering superior detection capabilities to the failed “puffer machines” and security swabs used to look for trace amounts of certain substances. The CAMS technology is currently being marketed by GateKeeper USA in the maritime security sector to detect this and other dangerous and illegal substances that may be aimed at hurting U.S. and International concerns worldwide.

About GateKeeper USA, Inc.
GateKeeper USA, located in Rockville, Maryland, is engaged in the maritime container industry as it relates to container security and protection from potential terrorist attacks. The initial focus of the company is the deployment of a proprietary shipping container security device known as the GateKeeper Container Automated Monitoring System (CAMS). The Company has employed proprietary detection and identification technologies. The technologies to being utilized by the Company provide rapid, automatic and specific real-time analysis, identification and quantification of the chemical, biological and radio active compounds whether in liquid, solid or gaseous states. For more information, visit our website at www.GateKeeperUSAInc.com.

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), and as such, may involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements, which are based on certain assumptions and describe future plans, strategies, and expectations, are generally identifiable by the use of words such as “believe,” “expect,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “project,” or similar expressions. These forward-looking statements relate to, among other things, expectations of the business environment in which the Company operates, projections of future performance, potential future performance, perceived opportunities in the market, and statements regarding the Company’s mission and vision. The Company’s actual results, performance, and achievements may differ materially from the results, performance, and achievements expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements due to a wide range of factors.

An MIT’s Technology Review article (RFID’s Security Problem, January/February 2009) earlier this year raises a point that has been discussed by many senior executives in the industry. Despite all of the hype and publicity, just how secure is the RFID technology that is supposed to be safeguarding, cargo being transported through our ports and cities?

”While new (RFID) technology seems likely to” “become a fiasco if officials don’t pay attention to the work of hackers and security researchers. These people try to expose weaknesses before they can be exploited maliciously. It’s much less painful to swallow the news from them than to wait until a problem becomes embarrassing — or devastating.”

In a paper co-authored with staff at the University of Washington and internet security firm RSA, the team detailed how the RFID chips can be cloned from distances of up to 50 metres. They also found that a key anti-cloning technique recommended by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) had not been used on the tags.

Hackers can use an ordinary laptop computer to clone information on RFID tags and even “smart cards” and reprogram them.

The problem is a serious one, the conclusion that a single RFID based one approach is the sole solution is, in almost every case, flawed. The solution must involve a new set of technologies with enhanced, well thought out security protocols.

GAITHERSBURG, MD, June 1, 2009 – GateKeeper USA, Inc. (Pink Sheets: GTKP), announced today that it is in receipt of an executed Letter of Intent, from a regional Investment Bank, for the completion of its $10,000,000 equity financing.

GateKeeper USA has undertaken measures to become compliant with respect to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and, with the rules and regulations governing fully reporting companies. As such, GateKeeper USA has been aggressively finalizing all of the internal processes required to obtain a listing and begin trading on a more senior stock exchange.

GateKeeper USA had retained the services of Semple, Marchal & Cooper, LLP, an Alliance member of BDO Seidman LLP, to complete its financial audit, in accordance with SEC guidelines. The Company had also changed its fiscal year end to 3/31/09. GateKeeper USA announced today that it has successfully completed the auditing process. It is the Company’s intent to immediately file Form 10-SB with the SEC, immediately following the successful closing of its equity financing, in order to become a fully reporting company under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

About GateKeeper USA, Inc.
GateKeeper USA, located in Gaithersburg, Maryland, is engaged in the maritime container industry as it relates to container security and protection from potential terrorist attacks. The initial focus of the company is the deployment of a proprietary shipping container security device known as the GateKeeper Container Automated Monitoring System (CAMS). The Company has employed proprietary detection and identification technologies. The technologies to being utilized by the Company provide rapid, automatic and specific real-time analysis, identification and quantification of the chemical, biological and radio active compounds whether in liquid, solid or gaseous states.

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), and as such, may involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements, which are based on certain assumptions and describe future plans, strategies, and expectations, are generally identifiable by the use of words such as “believe,” “expect,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “project,” or similar expressions. These forward-looking statements relate to, among other things, expectations of the business environment in which the Company operates, projections of future performance, potential future performance, perceived opportunities in the market, and statements regarding the Company’s mission and vision. The Company’s actual results, performance, and achievements may differ materially from the results, performance, and achievements expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements due to a wide range of factors.

GAITHERSBURG, MD, April 23, 2009 – GateKeeper USA, Inc. (Pink Sheets: GTKP), announced today the appointment of the Honorable Mr. Michael Bilirakis, to serve on the Board of Directors Advisory Board. The Honorable Mr. Bilirakis has served as a Republican member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 9th District of Florida, since 1983 until 2007, succeeded by his son, Gus Bilirakis. Mr. Bilirakis has served as Vice-Chairman: House Energy and Commerce Committee; House Veterans’ Affairs Committee and Chairman of House Oversight Subcommittee; Chairman, House Health Subcommittee; Member, National Commission on the Future for America’s Veterans. The majority of his professional career outside of the US Congress, has been as a successful attorney, also having served as a municipal judge. The Honorable Mr. Bilirakis received his BS degree in engineering from the University of Pittsburgh. He earned a law degree from the University of Florida. The Honorable Mr. Bilirakis is a combat veteran, having honorably served his country in the Korean War with the United States Airforce.

“We are extremely honored and privileged to have the Honorable Mr. Bilirakis as a member of our team. His service of twenty four years as a member of the United States House of Representatives has provided the Honorable Mr. Bilirakis with extensive knowledge of current government and policy. His expertise and guidance will serve as an invaluable asset to the Company. GateKeeper USA will rely upon the Honorable Mr. Bilirakis to direct efforts, regarding our activities involving US Government, Department of Defense, and Department of Homeland Security, along with fellow Advisory Board Members, James Kadke, Ph.D, and Randall Null, Ph.D.” stated, James W. Wishart, Chairman and CEO of GateKeeper USA Inc.

About GateKeeper USA, Inc.
GateKeeper USA, located in Gaithersburg, Maryland, is engaged in the maritime container industry as it relates to container security and protection from potential terrorist attacks. The initial focus of the company is the deployment of a proprietary shipping container security device known as the GateKeeper Container Automated Monitoring System (CAMS). The Company has employed proprietary detection and identification technologies. The technologies to being utilized by the Company provide rapid, automatic and specific real-time analysis, identification and quantification of the chemical, biological and radio active compounds whether in liquid, solid or gaseous states.

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), and as such, may involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements, which are based on certain assumptions and describe future plans, strategies, and expectations, are generally identifiable by the use of words such as “believe,” “expect,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “project,” or similar expressions. These forward-looking statements relate to, among other things, expectations of the business environment in which the Company operates, projections of future performance, potential future performance, perceived opportunities in the market, and statements regarding the Company’s mission and vision. The Company’s actual results, performance, and achievements may differ materially from the results, performance, and achievements expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements due to a wide range of factors.

GAITHERSBURG, MD, March 9, 2009 – GateKeeper USA, Inc. (Pink Sheets: GTKP), announced today the appointment of Randal E. Null, Ph.D., to serve on the Board of Directors Advisory Board. Since December 2006, Dr. Null has been an independent consultant in Homeland Security focusing on Security and Information Technologies to leading companies in the industry such as, L-3 Communications (NYSE: LLL), General Dynamics (NYSE: GD) and Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT). From January 2002 through 2006 he served in numerous roles with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Department of Homeland Security (DHS), ranging from Federal Security Director to Chief Technical Officer, and Chief Information Officer. Prior to joining TSA, Dr. Null worked various management positions in the semiconductor industries with Intel, Microchip Technology, Fairchild, and Texas Instruments. Dr. Null holds a BS in Chemical Engineering and a PhD in Engineering from Louisiana Tech University.

“We are extremely pleased and honored to have Dr. Null on our team. His experience in Homeland Security, coupled with his vast knowledge and understanding in the field of Transportation Security will serve as a viable asset to GateKeeper USA as we move forward.” Stated, James W. Wishart, Chairman and CEO of GateKeeper USA Inc.

About GateKeeper USA, Inc.
GateKeeper USA, located in Gaithersburg, Maryland, is engaged in the maritime container industry as it relates to container security and protection from potential terrorist attacks. The initial focus of the company is the deployment of a proprietary shipping container security device known as the GateKeeper Container Automated Monitoring System (CAMS). The Company has employed proprietary detection and identification technologies. The technologies to being utilized by the Company provide rapid, automatic and specific real-time analysis, identification and quantification of the chemical, biological and radio active compounds whether in liquid, solid or gaseous states.

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), and as such, may involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements, which are based on certain assumptions and describe future plans, strategies, and expectations, are generally identifiable by the use of words such as “believe,” “expect,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “project,” or similar expressions. These forward-looking statements relate to, among other things, expectations of the business environment in which the Company operates, projections of future performance, potential future performance, perceived opportunities in the market, and statements regarding the Company’s mission and vision. The Company’s actual results, performance, and achievements may differ materially from the results, performance, and achievements expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements due to a wide range of factors.

GE has suspended operations and investments in its CommerceGuard container security device solution due to poor economic conditions and what it says is a lack of firm field testing schedules and deployment plans from the U.S. government.

“We are not going to continue to invest and have suspended operations,” a spokeswoman for GE’s Security business tells TR2 regarding the company’s decision to halt work on CommerceGuard. “We will retain our ability to produce CommerceGuard.”

CommerceGuard is a device that is mounted inside the doors of shipping and trucking containers and can record unauthorized door openings. At key points along a supply chain, such as a seaport or land point of entry, radio frequency identification readers communicate with CommerceGuard and any event information is relayed to a command center regarding the door opening events. There has been interest in this technology by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and private industry for security and even quality control reasons.

At one time DHS’ Customs and Border Protection agency felt that if the container security devices worked with a very low false alarm rate, that would mean users might test expedited processing at ports of entry for quicker passage to their destinations inside the U.S. Later CBP decided that it would seek a more capable type of security device, one that could also detect tampering with any side of the container including the doors. Then in late 2007 CBP decided to focus efforts again on detecting unauthorized door openings using container security device (TR2, Jan. 9, 2008).

Early this year CBP was going to conduct a field evaluation of CommerceGuard on a sea container carried by an 18 wheel truck during a cargo trip from a supplier in Mexico into the U.S. After completing site surveys
for the RFID infrastructure and making all the necessary contacts, GE in January withdrew from the evaluation, Patrick Simmons, director of Non-Intrusive Inspection Technologies at CBP, tells TR2.

Simmons said he didn’t know why GE withdrew from the program. GE is the only company CBP has been working with the past few years and has twice previously tested the system to help move the technology forward so that it could meet the agency’s performance requirements, he says. The earlier tests were focused on things like vulnerabilities and false alarm rates, he says.

However, Simmons says the evaluation that GE pulled out of was to be a crucial test for the system to see if it was adequate as an interim solution for a part of the container security problem. CBP published a requirements document for CSDs in 2007 and CommerceGuard was the only solution that appeared to meet all the requirements, Simmons says. Still a demonstration of CommerceGuard inthe “stream of commerce” would be necessary before deciding if it could be the “potential stopgap” until better technology came along, he says.

Since the first test in 2004 run by CBP, CommerceGuard’s capabilities kept improving, Simmons says. Where it had been falling short had been in the communications, specifically sending data back to CBP and achieving
interoperability with other communications systems, he says.

Relatively high costs associated with the system have also been a challenge, Simmons says. While the business model has assumed that shippers would pay a service fee for using the device, Simmons says the trade community hasn’t embraced it, which could be due to additional security-related charges that industry has been paying since 9/11.

If the test GE pulled out of had ultimately showed that CommerceGuard was sufficient to meet the minimal requirements, then CBP would have considered establishing incentives in the trade community to adopt the CSD technology, Simmons says. These may have included “extra consideration” at the border, although not a “green lane,” he says. Another incentive might be making it a requirement for members achieving a certain level within the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) program, he says.

C-TPAT is a voluntary program that allows members of the trade community, typically shippers, importers, freight consolidators and others, to take specific measures to improve the security of the supply chain in return for benefits such as expedited processing for shipments entering the U.S.

Simmons says that another challenge in creating CSDs has been having the devices fit onto both standard shipping and trucking containers. CBP originally looked at the devices to better secure shipping containers but evolved its thinking towards having a “conveyance security device,” he says. “This is
not an easy fix,” he says.

GE has had several customers using CommerceGuard in limited applications, including Starbucks Coffee Co. If any, or all, of those customers are still using the container security device, they’ll being doing so without GE’s help.

“I do not have any comment on customers, like Starbucks, other than we have suspended our operations,” the company spokeswoman says.

CBP will be reviewing its options but will basically be going back out to see what is available in the market space for CSDs, Simmons says.

DHS’ Science and Technology branch currently is working with vendors to advance the development of CSD technology.

GAITHERSBURG, MD, February 11, 2009 – GateKeeper USA, Inc. (Pink Sheets: GTKP), announced today that US and International ports face an ongoing threat from a variety of chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and high yield explosive (CBRNE) devices across a broad range of military, government and commercial operations. The number of nations and non-national terrorist and criminal organizations capable of developing, possessing and deploying CBRNE weapons is steadily increasing and GateKeeper USA, has already produced the answer to these worldwide threats in its CAMS series. This effort was previously awarded by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to SAIC Inc. (NYSE: SAI) and L-3 Communications Holdings Inc., (NYSE: LLL) to enter into development of a prototype of an Advanced Container Security Device (ACSD).  

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Under the original Broad Agency Announcement issued by the Homeland Security Advanced Research Projects Agency defines an ACSD as “a sophisticated security system within the electronics industry that can detect unauthorized breaches on all six sides of a standard cargo container or an intrusion through the door while also monitor and relay conditions inside the container such as humidity temperature and oxygen levels.” The device should also have an approximately 1,250 day battery life, and detect a human being weighing more than 70 lbs within 2 hours.

GateKeeper USA’s Container Automated Monitoring System (CAMS) series, currently available, clearly exceed the end goals set by DHS and provides state-of –the-art solutions for the container industry. The CAMS devices employ not only sensors but sophisticated proprietary software and microprocessors that allows multiple inputs to be detected, analyzed and identified simultaneously, in near real time with the ability to intuitively perceive, extrapolate and detect homemade or hybrid substances.

Gatekeeper USA’s ACSD product offerings feature four unique CAMS devices. ALPHA Series for basic applications; BRAVO series for perishable goods and cold chain management, featuring real time temperature reading with alarm mode, and spoilage detection to include bacteria, as may be requested by the customer; CHARLIE Series for valuable and sensitive cargo; and the DELTA Series for covert/military applications meeting DHS requirements in a NBC environment for CBRNE detection and Intrusion / Tampering, Biometrics collection and full color video. All of the different Series of CAMS will include Geo-Fencing; Over Air Programming; Tamper Notification; and, redundant location identification with GPS Technology.

The GateKeeper USA CAMS devices truly and accurately define the paradigm for an ACSD.

About GateKeeper USA, Inc.
GateKeeper USA, located in Gaithersburg, Maryland, is engaged in the maritime container industry as it relates to container security and protection from potential terrorist attacks. The initial focus of the company is the deployment of a proprietary shipping container security device known as the GateKeeper Container Automated Monitoring System (CAMS). The Company has employed proprietary detection and identification technologies. The technologies to being utilized by the Company provide rapid, automatic and specific real-time analysis, identification and quantification of the chemical, biological and radio active compounds whether in liquid, solid or gaseous states.

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), and as such, may involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements, which are based on certain assumptions and describe future plans, strategies, and expectations, are generally identifiable by the use of words such as “believe,” “expect,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “project,” or similar expressions. These forward-looking statements relate to, among other things, expectations of the business environment in which the Company operates, projections of future performance, potential future performance, perceived opportunities in the market, and statements regarding the Company’s mission and vision. The Company’s actual results, performance, and achievements may differ materially from the results, performance, and achievements expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements due to a wide range of factors.

Security 50 represents the industry’s leaders, highlighting their strengths in different product categories such as Video Surveillance, Access Control, Biometrics, Alarm (Intrusion Detection) and Multiple. It is a ranking of manufacturers, not including installation, distribution or resale income. As a leading trade publication and media platform with a global network, A&S is uniquely positioned to collect information from influential companies worldwide. After months of number crunching, researching and interviewing, we present this year’s Security 50 ranking.

There comes a time when one’s conscience and sense of right and wrong compel one to speak, especially if speaking may impact the common good in a positive manner. However, of ten and especially in this case, speaking out can also carry potential negative consequences. On the one hand, the following commentary will expose a serious vulnerability at US seaports and land ports-of-entry in the hope that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will understand the potential consequences of the vulnerability and the cost of not addressing it. On the other hand, speaking out carries the risk of identifying a vulnerability that terrorists have not considered, although that is unlikely considering their skill in improvised explosive device (IED) usage. The dilemma is this: speak out to prompt the DHS to acknowledge its seriousness and defeat the vulnerability; or say nothing, and let a terrorist attack take out a significant US port with relative ease. I have decided to speak out.

Context of concern
Powers International, an international transportation security company, developed a container security system in 2002 (see Cargo Security International, February/March 2006, page 40). It obtained a patent on its system in 2006 which has now been issued in 37 countries. Initially, the company believed that radio frequency identification (RFID) technology approved by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for use with shipping containers should be considered for incorporation into Powers International’s satellite based

Vulnerability as an IED trigger
Recently, however, concerns about RFID usage in seaports and land ports have developed. Engineers at Powers International now believe that RFID usage, as approved for use in the United States, is a serious vulnerability because of the ease of detecting these RFID system. emissions. RFID emissions can serve as the trigger-mechanism for detonating an explosive device within the container. Because an explosive device can be easily wired to detonate with the proper RFID frequency signal, all US ports that employ the approved RFID frequency for shipping containers become more vulnerable to terrorist attack.

A review of the literature seemed to confirm what was suspected. There were conflicting claims and the process of selecting a frequency for container security was contentious. Ultimately, a decision was made by the FCC to set aside a frequency of 433.5 to 434.5 MHz spectrum band, and their rule would allow these RFID systems to transmit for 60 seconds, rather than only 1 second. Against objections, especially those of the amateur radio sector, the spectrum and transmission time were approved by the FCC for use with shipping containers and in commercial and industrial areas.

As a result, the US government mandated and published the specific frequency for RFID use with shipping containers. The fact that only approved and published RFID signals are required to be transmitted on a given frequency at US ports by both the private and public sectors, in effect, makes government policy usable as an instrument of terrorist s tactics. The need for surreptitious port penetrations, elaborate electronics, intricate timing, or other specialised terrorist tradecraft or operations in the United States becomes diminished, if not eliminated. The US private sector and government agencies, such as the Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and the Department of Defense (DoD), can themselves, through routine and normal procedures, detonate those explosive devices carried in containers entering our ports.

Decision to test
To test the validity of its concerns, Powers International constructed controller boards to serve as relays or detonators using off-the-shelf, over-the-counter products. Using these detonators, Powers International simulated multiple explosions at varying distances using the frequency required by the US government. Further work on this vulnerability revealed that signals emitted to detonate explosive devices could be made at significant distances from locations even outside the port facilities with the use of high-gain antennas. However, since Powers International had not used an actual RFID tag to verify its concerns nor actually detonated explosives in this manner, the company approached experts in the area of IEDs and relevant government agencies to examine these concerns. These included municipal bomb squads, and engineers with blast contracts with the DHS, the DoD and the CBP. All but the DoD, DHS, and CBP initially responded and concurred with Powers International’s assessment that RFID usage as approved for containers in US ports appears to be dangerous. Powers International also contacted members of the US House Homeland Security Committee to inform them of our concerns and to be on record of doing so.

Blast demonstration
In order to expose this vulnerability in an irrefutable fashion and transparent format, Powers International and Raytheon Homeland Security Division, with the cooperation of Zapata Engineering, the University of North Carolina at Charlotte College of Engineering, the City of Gastonia Bomb Squad, and the 321 Equipment Co., ran a demonstration on 13 November 2007. The demonstration showed how an actual RFID tag could send a signal to a receiving circuit (detonator) prepared from over-the-counter components. The detonator was made by an undergraduate college student for a cost of approximately $20. The RFID signal detonated a very small amount of live explosives in a container by means of a simple emission of a radio signal traveling on the approved RFID frequency. The demonstration was ‘brand agnostic’. At no time during the demonstration was any port, political subdivision, manufacturer, distributor, or user of RFID for container security promoted or criticised for its use.

Government interest and support
Because of the serious and potentially controversial nature of this demonstration, many government officials and personnel of the US Administration were invited, including the DoD. Due to its interest in and extensive use of RFID, the DoD sent two people, the chief engineer of an RFID DoD programme and his supervisor. So, representatives from the US Army were among the attendees at the 13 November event. They observed the preparation and demonstration of an RF-detection and triggering device utilised to detonate explosives in a shipping container at the City of Gastonia Ordinance Range. Subsequently, the US Army confirmed in writing that its representatives examined the device and wiring and validated that a commercial RFID interrogator was used to ‘wake up’ a commercial RFID tag. When the RFID tag responded on the 433 MHz frequency, the relay closed and the blasting cap set off the explosive charge. Thus, the DoD representatives recognised and confirmed the validity of Powers International’s concern over the routine RFID use, its vulnerable nature, and the accuracy and relevance of the demonstration to homeland security. In the DoD’s own words, the
“US Army representatives examined the device and wiring and confirm that a commercial RFID interrogator was use to ‘wake up’ a commercial RFID tag. When the RFID tag responded on the 433 MHz frequency, the relay closed and the blasting cap set off the explosive charge.” Other witnesses were invited to attend and verify the process used at, and the results obtained from, the demonstration. The demonstration was filmed and is available for review. The demonstration was 100% successful, and it showed empirically the vulnerability of RFID transmissions as approved for use with containers passing through international ports-of-entry.

Governmental responses
Unfortunately, Powers International met resistance from both the DHS and the CBP, who refused to attend or to indicate any recognition of the demonstration’s value, even though both had local offices and personnel within 20 minutes of the demonstration site. The CBP actually attempted to put obstacles in the path of the demonstration by not allowing its transceiver or activators to be used at the demonstration, even by their own personnel. Ten major US ports and the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) were also invited. None of these entities responded or attended. The US Coast Guard (USCG) refused to at tend. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) was invited but did not respond to the invitation nor attend. A total of approximately 50 invitations were sent with marginal results. Finally, invitations were made to some members of US Congress in those states which have seaports. Only one staff member of one US Congressional representative attended. There were, however, followup calls made by a southern border Congressman, personally indicating an interest in and an acknowledgment of the importance of the demonstration.

Conclusion and recommendation
First, this demonstration proved beyond doubt that RFID usage can become a trigger of container IEDs in our ports. Second, this demonstration produced agreement among those present that because this vulnerability is real, it must be recognised by those government entities whose mission it is to protect the United States. Pointing out the vulnerability was relatively easy. Fixing it may be more difficult.

Nevertheless, this vulnerability is proven, and must be addressed without delay. In light of the potential impact on the US economy of closing one or more US seaports or land ports-of-entry and the cost of human life at and around those ports, it seems imperative that cooperative steps be taken by both the public and private sector to remove or minimise this recognised, demonstrable vulnerability and potential threat to the
United States.

In January 2008, two months after the demonstration, the DHS made an official statement regarding it. It is self-explanatory and represents the thinking and management posture of the DHS:

DHS recognises and benefits from the use of RFID technology to ensure the smooth and secure movement of both people and cargo into the United States. It is accurate that RFID systems are in use at US ports of entry (air, sea and land) and have been adopted by a number of private-sector companies for supply chain management, asset and shipment tracking and inventory purposes. While RFID systems used in maritime ports rely upon a variety of transmission frequencies for port and terminals operations, there is currently no one common RFID frequency in use throughout the global supply chain.

While it is technically feasible that the detection of RFID emissions could be used to trigger an explosive device within a container, DHS does not agree with the report’s assessment that ports that employ RFID technology become more vulnerable to terrorist attack.

The DHS admits in writing that using this frequency to trigger an explosive device is technically feasible (capable of being carried out) but we shouldn’t worry about it. The logic is indicative of the DHS. It seems that DHS is saying: “We know this can happen, but let’s wait until it happens.”

Authored by Dr. Jim Giermanski, Professor of International Business and Director of the Centre for Global Commerce at Belmont Abbey College. He is also Chairman of the Board of Powers International Inc., an international transportation security company. Originally published in October/November 2008 issue of Cargo Security International.