RFID is an abbreviation for Radio-Frequency identification devices. There are different use cases for both business and consumer settings. In a business setting, the primary uses are for asset management and loss prevention. Whereas in a consumer setting, it brings technologies such as mobile wallets and fitness trackers to life. However, as I have mentioned in forum two about implanting chips in human arms, where there is convenience, there are risks. Although, this technology has been widely accepted, adopted, and perfected in recent years, especially during the pandemic years.

It is important to note that one of the most significant risks for an RFID device is identity theft. It goes hand-in-hand with the invasion of privacy. The massive commercial adoption of RFID technologies in the United States went relatively smoothly. However, its rollout for interstate travel and implementation as an official identification document has been especially challenging due to privacy concerns (Center Epic – radio frequency identification (RFID) systems). Although, with the most recent adoption of driver’s licenses and state IDs within the wallet app for Apple devices (Apple announces first states signed up to adopt driver’s licenses and state IDs in Apple Wallet). It is inevitably clear to say that mass adoption for it is just a matter of time.

Despite all the risks associated with RFID-enabled devices, it is still a monumental piece of invention that has brought many conveniences and joy that we’ve come to expect. Therefore, I would argue, as long as it limits its frequency range to about a couple of millimeters. And that it doesn’t track a person outside of its intended purposes, we can reap all the benefits that it has to bring to us.

Works Cited

Center, Electronic Privacy Information. “Epic – Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Systems.” Electronic Privacy Information Center, epic.org/privacy/rfid/.

Apple Announces First States Signed up to Adopt Driver’s Licenses and State IDs in Apple Wallet, Apple, Inc., 1 Sept. 2021, http://www.apple.com/newsroom/2021/09/apple-announces-first-states-to-adopt-drivers-licenses-and-state-ids-in-wallet/.