My understanding is that the problem you mentioned is top of mind for several start-ups and California seems to be pushing in that direction. I am willing to spend some time to see it work. Here is the current link from CA, which might just support QR for now. https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/ca-dmv-wallet/opencred-for-developers/#:~:text... . I want to see it on NFC or BLE asap. ..tom On Mon, May 20, 2024 at 6:03 AM Justin Byrd wrote:

Hi, All – This is one solution space I tinker with…

I see potential for this technology with EBT/Food Stamps and WIC programs, which provide food credits and cash payments to low-income families. These services generally operate through state-run apps and banking partners. Additionally, I recently discovered Chatpay, an app that integrates with other digital payment systems to assist individuals without traditional bank accounts.

If the device supports NFC or other secure wireless payment technologies, it could be adapted to enhance these services. Furthermore, if this wallet doubles as a document wallet, it could streamline qualifications through digital verification, allowing for the efficient upload, collection, and secure storage of essential documents.

The intentional destruction of paper documents is a common tactic used to control and undermine underprivileged individuals, impacting their ability to access services and prove identity, citizenship, and ownership.

In my exploration of NFC payment options, I learned that iPhones can accept payments using the Tap to Pay feature, available from iOS 15.4 onward. This feature enables merchants to accept contactless payments via iPhone, Apple Pay, Apple Watch, and other digital wallets. I am interested in whether any research has been done on whether the lower-end devices currently in circulation could support two-way NFC payments, given that Android fragmentation continues to be a significant issue. Additionally, many low-cost NFC readers have been found to contain spyware.

On a personal note, I've tested about 10 Android readers purchased from eBay and Amazon in search of a model that could be modified with a custom, clean ROM. Almost all the devices had locked bootloaders, and even those with custom UIs from downstream providers had restrictive bootloaders or update modules, making them unsuitable for banking, selling to my clients, or using with specific populations.

We did find an Android developer who could have devised a custom flash procedure, but it would have required sending the device internationally and developing specific printer drivers. Unfortunately, this project has stalled as we were unable to resolve these technical hurdles, and we haven't found an off-the-shelf solution that meets our requirements for a clean, affordable, mobile payment device. However, the strong interest we've encountered highlights the significant demand for a secure and cost-effective solution in this space.

Warmly,

-J

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*Justin Byrd *(He, Him)

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*From: *Tom Jones *Date: *Saturday, May 18, 2024 at 7:32 PM *To: *wg-riup *Subject: *[WG-RIUP] for underserved populations we need a simple reader in the field

I propose we consider the environment where the underserved can be helped.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1keHesvQHrCdbNPavI3imleBm4i9ymXM_/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=109794657323597753486&rtpof=true&sd=true

..tom