Counterfeiting credit cards is a common method of fraud; the magnetic strips on the backs of cards are also being counterfeited. One countermeasure in limited use is the introduction of a smart card containing a small memory chip. Criminals use the Internet to obtain credit card numbers and other data; one bill-paying service is trying to create a method whereby credit card users could encrypt their account information into a file that could be read only by the issuing bank. Auto burglars can remove airbag modules from parked cars in less than a minute; manufacturers are working on making the modules more theft proof. Cellular telephones are being illegally exploited through the cloning of cellular phones. Service providers are countering these problems by requiring a personal identification number for each call and through the use of digital technology. Photograph