Personal Area Networks

Our discussion on Tuesday led us to talking about Personal Area Networks, which are close proximity networks. I find the technology that goes along with these personal area network to be quite interesting, like wearable computers, using human bodies to transmit data, and RFID chips. In another one of my classes, we have also discussed RFID chips and they are definitely something that will change our futures and spark a lot of debate.

RFID chips are microchips that transmit signals in response to radio signals sent by RFID readers. The chip responds by sending out its own unique ID code and is powered by radio signals sent by the transceiver, which “wakes them up” and forces them to respond. They are implanted or attached to people, pets, or objects and do not require a battery to run.

Pet owners are using RFID chips, implanting their pets so that they can locate them if they get lost. Parents are implanting their children in order to track them. Michelin is implanting their tires with the chips in case of theft. Millions of stores are also using these chips in order to know when to restock shelves and to deter theft. People are implanting themselves with these chips that store medical information in the case of an emergency, or so that they simply don’t have to carry around a wallet.

While I definitely see the benefits of having a RFID chip implanted within you (quicker purchases, emergency information readily available), I am not sure that I would want one in me. I don’t want people to know my every move, where I am, what I like, what I buy, who I’m with; I just can’t help but feel that this knowledge will be abused. What if my information falls in the wrong hands? From identity left to stalking to kidnapping to murder, I don’t think we can even begin to imagine what criminals could do once they know everything about us. But then again, I think I just have to face it that RFID chips are our future and hope that security measures advance along with this technology.