RFID
I've read a fair bit about this technology and can see the benefits but the disadvantages seem to outweigh them the more I read about it. For anyone who doesn't know what RFID is - it's Radio Frequency Identification - those little electronic tags on so many products (including library books in many places). While it's useful, particularly in stocktaking, etc, I think it is too dangerous in today's paranoid world. The powers that be would use it (and intend to use it) to the detriment of everyone's right to privacy.
This link gives examples of what hackers can do and it's quite a frightening concept. General awareness is definitely lacking. Very few are aware of the dangers of such a technology.
Naturally the EFF are concerned about the threat to privacy and freedom. Their excellent site is here.
I'm no longer as supportive of its use in libraries for example. Too risky until security is safeguarded.
A very good book on the subject is "RFID, Applications, Security and Privacy" edited by Simson Garfinkel and Beth Rosenberg (2006, Pearson Education).
