RFID

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)



Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)

Introduction

Over the period of past few years, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology and devices have gained wide acceptance all over the world. The major current applications of this technology include inventory control, access control, toll collection systems, human and animal identification and access control. This essay addresses the dangers to individuals which may be caused by the use of RFID, the ways to minimize these dangers, the losses for an individual for not embracing this technology. In addition, the essay also discusses the use of RFID of business, the success and failures it may cause for the business organizations, the future of RFID, and overall analysis of the topic.

Discussion

RFID technology is mainly used for developing small electronic chips, which can hold approximately 2000 bytes of data. This data can be sent using antenna, or can be used for identification of a person, or item depending on the application requirements. The purpose of RFID chip is similar to those of barcodes or magnetic strip at the back of credit or debit cards; i.e., to provide a unique identifier. However, RFID chips are considered more efficient than traditional bar codes, because the need of swiping card is eliminated, as RFID chips can be read at some distance.

The most common use of RFID chip is to store the data, and retrieve at the required time. This data can be used to identify the item in manufacture, goods in transit, location and identity of a vehicle, animal or person. The system includes a tag, reading/writing mechanism and an antenna for transmitting information up to some distance. Typical architecture of RFID chip is shown in figure 1.

In addition to various advantages, RFID have raised many questions and possible dangers. Some of these dangers are discussed below:

Dangers of RFID

One of the most important dangers for the individuals using RFID technology and chips is toward their security and privacy. Any scanner can read the RFID chips and access the data, even those chips which are embedded or implanted inside human bodies. Also, it is possible to read the RFID tags, even without letting the person know about it. Thus, people become significantly conscious about the loss and misuse of their personal and confidential data.

RFID systems are very easy to be jammed, as they work on the principles of electromagnetic waves. It would make the customers unhappy as they will have to wait in the long queues in order to purchase the RFID tagged items. The overall cost and energy usage of different equipments would also increase, as the RFID tags would require more battery power in order to work in the long range.

RFID tags can be a danger for the consumers, as it may not be possible for them to remove a tag from their purchased item. This would raise concern privacy issues for the consumers, as it would be possible to trace their location with the help of chip embedded in the ...