Despite the fact that Radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology has been around for a long time now there is still a lot of mystery around it. Very few people seem to know about it and even fewer seem willing to reap its benefits. If you are not taking advantage of this technology until now you are seriously missing out on a cost-effective solution for many of your problems. The reason you do not find many industrialists talking about this, because they want you to go towards more expensive options. If you knew about this cheaper alternative why will you buy the other expensive technologies? Hence the misconceptions around it have been created to steer you away from this pocket-friendly solution to your problems. Here we will bust the myths and misconception around the RFID tracking.
How does RFID work?
Radio Frequency Identification tracking devices work when tags containing a tiny circuit and antenna send out their identification code in the form of radio signals which is then received and recorded by a receiving device called an interrogator. The tag can also store any information in addition to the identification code like history, positioning and transportation records of an asset, person or pet carrying the RFID tag. Its most common utility is in vehicle tolling, pet identification tags, employee identification cards, security passes, and many other utilities.
Does radiation hurt human health?
The shortest answer is No. Studies have shown that even the longest exposure to RFID tags does not have any negative consequences of health. This is true for even when subjects are wearing the tags on themselves. It is very safe when it comes to long term ad constant exposure.
Can it violate privacy?
Yes, this technology has the potential for being used for the purpose of privacy violation as the person wearing the tag or carrying the object with RFID can be tracked. It makes it easier to track them however there are laws against such unethical use. You should consider this while carrying credit and debit cards, RFID identity cards, vehicle tags and pet tags. These can make your location trackable and thus breach of your privacy is a possibility.
Identity theft
Another thing to consider is that identity theft for credit card related crimes are a possibility because of the RFID technology used. Therefore it is advised to take appropriate caution in this regards.
Is there a Possibility of Unauthorized Tracking?
Law requires the stores using RFID trackers for items they are selling to be disabled or destroyed once the item is paid for. While it is common practice that RFID tags of items you purchased from a store are destroyed at the checking out counter, slip-ups are possible. RFID tags are so inconspicuous that they can easily be attached to any of your purchases at the store or other items accessible by people with malevolent intentions.
Conclusion
This technology has a huge scope for offering a cost-friendly solution to several needs and contrary to popular belief it is not a threat to your health. However, because it is essentially a tracking system and all sort of technologies used for tracking can be hacked you need to take measurements to protect your privacy and prevent unauthorised access.
