How Closely are We Tracked?

Sep. 6, 2003

UPS and FedEx both have systems in place that allow us to track packages that they are delivering. These packages can be on their way to our house or to someone else's house. All we need to do is log on to their Web sites, put in our tracking number, and voila! We can see where the package is! 

In an article on ZDNet, UK an interesting question was raised. This article discusses a new tracking feature that is being put to the test. It is called RFID, or Radio Frequency Identification. This is a new way to track items. A tag that contains a small radio transmitter is placed somewhere within the package. The "tags" are very small and emit a radio signal that sends information about what it is attached to. 

These tags stir up some controversy over their use. Mostly the controversy comes from privacy related issues. Could my privacy be compromised through an RFID tag that is on a pair of shoes that I buy? (see the ZDNet, UK article for more information). Complete details about RFID can be found at the RFID Web site. There are still many unanswered questions about these little devices. It will be interesting to watch and see what becomes of them!