Monday, November 07, 2005

IBM Develops Scratch-Off RFID Tags

"IBM researchers have developed a method to ensure consumer privacy while using RFID tags that emulate scratch-off lottery tickets or perforated clothing labels. While the RFID device would remain on the shirt, can, or package itself, IBM's idea is attach a partially-destructible RFID antenna so that the consumer can remove it after purchase. IBM researchers introduced the concept in a paper presented Monday. Destroying part of the antenna would degrade the antenna range from a few meters down to a few inches, helping to alleviate concerns that hidden RFID scanners could "read" the contents of a consumer's shopping cart, identifying what they purchased." Source: extremetech.com