Radio frequency identification is a technology that was not given much attention until the turn of the 21st century. Basically, RFID is a way for devices to communicate through radio frequency so they can identify each other and be used to exchange information. RFID devices can contain information specific to the owner of the device.

History

In 1973, Mario Cardullo patented the first known ancestor to today's RFID technology. It included a transmitter and a receiver for exchange of data.

Why RFID Became Recognized

In the early 21st century, RFID really started catching on as people started realizing more practical uses for it. Devices that people use daily started implementing RFID technology--credit cards, keys and identification cards.

Implementation

As RFID started gaining ground, VeriChip has made a controversial jump in how RFID can be used. The company announced in August 2009 that it had developed a new type of chip called VeriTrace, designed to assist in locating lost people in cases of emergency, such as natural disasters.

Human Implantation

RFID microchips make information much easier to access, such as a patient's medical records. Other uses may include location of soldiers missing in action as well as location of missing children.

Misconceptions

Despite the controversy surrounding human implantation that implies that RFID microchips can be used to spy on people, the U.S. Senate has made it illegal for any entity to force a person to implant the chip for any reason in Senate Bill 362.

Source:

U.S. Patent 3,713,148

The Benefits of RFID Technology

VeriChip August 2009 Press Release