Leeds Beckett University student launches indiegogo campaign for crime fighting wallet

An enterprising Leeds Beckett University student recently launched an online crowdfunding campaign to raise more than £3k to manufacture and sell a specially made wallet that prevents contactless bank card theft.

21-year-old BSc (Hons) Computing undergraduate Ibbe Raja, who is currently undertaking a placement year, has teamed up with his brother Jalil Raja, 19, and friend Sam Andrews, 20, to create ‘Vinco’ – an ultra-thin wallet that protects against Radio Frequency ID (RFID) theft.

The crowdfunding campaign is being promoted by Indiegogo, which provides schemes in need of cash an online platform to garner public funding within an allocated time frame.

If the £3k target is reached within the deadline, the trio will receive the public’s pledged cash, and they have currently raised more than 60% of their desired target.

The wallet has already been successfully trialled and tested against RFID signals, and a RFID scanner also failed to detect any cards through Vinco.

The wallet, designed to tightly grip the contents, is made from Tyvek, a tough material which ensures that bank cards and cash are kept dry.

Ibbe said: “Our Vinco wallet was made to keep your money portable and, more importantly, safe. The fact is, almost all wallets are prone to RFID skimming, and we were inspired to create a product which protected against this crime after one of our friends was the victim of this form of theft. Not only is Vinco thin and secure, its stylish design makes for a discreet yet RFID-proof wallet. Weighing just 30 grams, it’ll fit into any pocket unnoticed and can hold up to seven cards and a few folded cash bills. It will also be available in a range of colours.

“We have a lot of faith in this product and hope that the public get behind us with our crowdfunding bid. Vinco is designed, stitched and shipped locally here in Leeds, so customers will get a wallet that incorporates the true sentiment of British values.

“Vinco will be packaged and shipped by Clubit, an online retailer and wholesaler. Clubit was founded by a former Leeds Beckett student in 1999 and I am currently undertaking my University placement year with the company. Clubit have helped us greatly with this venture and having their support has really boosted our drive, confidence and belief in the Vinco product. If we are successful with this crowdfunding bid, everything is already in place for us to begin manufacturing, selling and shipping out Vinco wallets worldwide. The retail price for the wallets is £20 each although the early bird perk is available now on indiegogo for £14.”

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