Multiple memory zones and the flexibility to configure each zone to different levels of security make the CryptoMemory and CryptoRF a sound security option. These security level options include open access EEPROM, which is equivalent to standard Serial EEPROM and offers no security. The next level includes password-only protection, which offers a low level of security. One or more zones can be configured with password and mutual authentication, which offers a medium level of security. Finally, the maximum level of security can be chosen which includes passwords, mutual authentication, and read/write encryption. Included in the technology are both password and authentication attempt counters, which help prevent repetitive or guessing attacks. This unique flexibility is important to understand because it opens up many application possibilities. Looking at the example of loyalty and vending, it’s fairly easy to visualize how the application would require different security levels and access rights for the different user memory zones. The issuer would require supervisor-level, or read/write privileges, in order to be able to award loyalty “points” or add money, while the end user would only be allowed user, or read only, privileges to certain portions of the application. Additionally, other zones may be configured at the time of issuance as a read-only resource with the user information.