Stand up and take a bow, MBTA. The CharlieCard (actually a MiFare Classic) uses simplistic proprietary encryption that has been broken twice. Had the MBTA spent a few extra clams on the version that uses strong encryption, this wouldn't be an issue- and everyone is screwed, because readers installed in thousands of fareboxes aren't compatible with the better cards.

For those of you following the saga of my discarded CharlieTicket project:

Yesterday, I brought 50 CharlieTickets worth $67.85 to the Charlie office in Downtown Crossing station. In return, I got a CharlieCard with all of that value on it -- but it took 45 minutes for them to do it. I then added 15 cents to it so that it has an even number of subway rides (40).

Tomorrow morning, I'll donate this card to the Somerville Homeless Coalition. They have assured me that they will find a client who can use the card.

Below the break: A guide to finding discarded CharlieTickets with value.

Colleen the Subway Knitter is holding a drawing for her pair of CharlieCard mittens. Just make a donation to Rosie's Place via the PayPal link on her home page by noon on Jan. 26 and you'll be entered.