‘RFID and Identity Management in Everyday Life’ [2006].
EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT - Scientific Technology Options Assessment.
It’s an interesting dive into RFID and ultimately Digital ID, because this took place at the same time as Tony Blair’s (failed) attempt to push through the National ID card scheme, with Clare Sullivan lurking in the shadows.
‘This trust in the limited function of the system is somewhat justified. Unlike, for example, GSM, GPS or Internet data, RFID data currently only provide a very fragmented image of its users‘
Of course, this changed… rather a lot later on…
‘Within these limited settings, many systems still run parallel to the system they are supposed to replace: paper tickets, barcodes, cash, iron keys, magnetic cards, etc. This could limit the convenience for the users, but it also provides them with more choice and limits the possibilities for control by the maintainer. In other words, a poor digital identity is not worth managing.‘
What’s lacking is integration between services -
‘This could change in the coming years. According to the experts with who we discussed our findings, a number of developments are likely to take place that will lead to an ‘Internet of things’ in which RFID will play a key role.‘
… and here we are -
‘Once every citizen holds an RFID version of these identity cards, the databases running within these systems will provide a real-time overview of all movements within the system.‘
… and there’s the legit fear - outlined in 2006.
