RFID technology has enormous value in the many uses available to us in the future. I believe that one of the biggest concerns about RFID is how intrusive we will allow it to go. The retail sales industry could actually save money with RFID technology by the reduction of employee theft and shoplifting. WalMart has said it will not do business with anybody who sells to them that does not use this technology.
We are already using this technology in our pets, tracking shipments, and the retail and airplane industries. By tracking shipments, we can obtain information on where they are, and how long it will take before they reach their destination. By tagging our luggage, it will result in a huge reduction in lost luggage. We also have imbedded chips in some credit cards that allow us to avoid lines at the checkout counter.
One of the biggest drawbacks is the intrusion into everyday life. Where does it start? Where does it stop? I believe this technology could be of great importance to the criminal justice system. Could an imbedded chip be the solution to "throwing everyone in jail or prison?" With the release of prisoners due to prison closings and jail overcrowding, this could be an alternative method of tracking some criminals. I personally do not think that imprisonment is the answer to some crimes that are committed. This technology could be used in the tracking of pedophiles and peoplewho commit crimes against children.
I'm just wondering if this would start to become an invasion of privacy? I do not know enough about this technology, and that could be the reason that it scares me. I do see the benefit for the retail industry, but how is it going to benefit me? I don't know if I would be okay with the idea that someone would be able to track me and know where I am at all times.
ReplyDeleteWhat would happen if technology fails, or if there is a power outage? We saw on Thursday how losing power in the building affected our class and learning experience. What happens when the loss of power affects us on a more personal level? Will we still be able to shop in stores if we become too reliant on this technology? What if someone steals my credit card? If there is a chip in my credit card, someone could steal it and walk out the door charging my credit card for their purchases. I'm afraid it is going to make identity theft even easier.
As far as tracking people that have been in prison, I think it might be an invasion of privacy. I understand that they committed a crime, but who will have access to being able to track them? Do they just become public property and have no rights to privacy just because they committed a crime?