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RFID tags: commercial applications v. privacy rights

Eileen P. Kelly (Ithaca College, School of Business, Ithaca, New York, USA)
G. Scott Erickson (Ithaca College, School of Business, Ithaca, New York, USA)

Industrial Management & Data Systems

ISSN: 0263-5577

Article publication date: 1 August 2005

6950

Abstract

Purpose

This article seeks to examine the use of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology in commercial applications and to discuss whether regulation is needed to balance commercial economic interests versus consumer privacy and libertarian concerns.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper covers discussions and comparative studies of others' work and thinking.

Findings

RFID technology provides enormous economic benefits for both business and consumers, while simultaneously potentially constituting one of the most invasive surveillance technologies threatening consumer privacy.

Practical implications

The use of RFID technology has profound consumer privacy, civil liberty and security implications.

Originality/value

RFID technology is at an embryonic stage. Like many new technologies, it poses both potential benefit and harm to society. The article recommends that legislation is needed to tip the balance enough to provide adequate privacy protection without unduly harming economic efficiency.

Keywords

Citation

Kelly, E.P. and Erickson, G.S. (2005), "RFID tags: commercial applications v. privacy rights", Industrial Management & Data Systems, Vol. 105 No. 6, pp. 703-713. https://doi.org/10.1108/02635570510606950

Publisher

:

Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2005, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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