While there are many things I've learned in this class this semester, one of the topics I find most surprising are RFID tags. I was familiar with this technology in stores as a means to discourage theft as well as way to protect valuables if lost or stolen (the technology has been used in automobiles and pets to track in case of theft). I was unfamiliar with the frightening prospects RFID technology provides.
Once again RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification) tags can be placed anywhere and carry a diversity of information. While in the past the technology has been utilized to somewhat harmless extensions, the future of how RFID tags is unclear. They could be used as a way to increase convenience for consumers and travelers. If everyone wore an RFID tag somewhere on/in their person their lives could be slightly quicker and personalized. Somewhat like the scene in "Minority Report" when consumers have news, advertising, communication and travel catered to them as they live out their routine, RFID tags promise this lifestyle. On the other hand, unconsciously transmitting your personal information to the world might not be as gloriously simple as many expect. What I found most disturbing during my research and contemplation on RFID tags was that anyone wearing an RFID tag would be susceptible to personal invasions of privacy at almost any time. Travelers might be warranted to less travel delays due to red tape and customs. However, techno-savvy thieves would be able to easily retrieve personal information such as addresses, phone and social security numbers simply by passing and scanning someone with an RFID tag.
Of the many interesting things I've learned in this class (and I mean that with absolute sincerity), RFID technology is by far one of the most interesting. I hope I will be techno-savvy enough to be informed on RFID developments.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment