RFID Disadvantages

Even though the RFID technology could be crucial for most organizations to use, it could be too expensive to install. The smaller organizations with less expenses would find it much too costly to use in their firms which can be a disadvantage.

Other disadvantages include:

• RFID tags work great on products like hard cover books and other material objects, however the tags are hard to read when they are put on liquids and metal products. The reason why the tags have trouble reading through the liquids and metal products is because it reflects the radio wave signals interfering with the communication process. This would be a problem for retail industries using RFID for drinks or any other liquid and metal products.
• Some organizations admit to having problems with the RFID when they come in contact with devices like walkie-talkies, because the presence of these devices can also interfere with the radio wave signals. Wal-Mart for example have had numerous problems with their radio wave signals because they use RFID on all their products.
• Most of the firms that use the RFID technology also have a facility that deactivates the tags after the products have been purchased. However they have received customer complaints about the privacy when they leave the stores. When the RFID tags are installed on the products and are gone from the stores, they can be tracked and personal information of the buyer can be at risk of exposure if they are not properly deactivated.
  

The biggest disadvantage of the RFID technology would be the privacy issues, a lot of individuals are concerned as to what can be retrieved with this device. The RFID tags are small and they can easily be installed into objects or documents without the knowledge of the participants. The radio waves would remain completely unnoticed if they are not looked for, they are silent and travel long distances easily through different materials. Some RFID tags are installed on the tags of products that were purchased like clothing.

Privacy issues also arise with the RFID devices because they can easily track any individuals movements and locations. If the readers are positioned properly, an individual can be tracked with a tag from anywhere possible, even space!

The following link is a video showing the way RFID works and its disadvantages: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yNPDgudPmXE&feature=related.

If the RFID technology is used correctly and efficiently, it could be the next newly innovated tool for numerous business's and organizations. More research is needed to improve all the small flaws and limitations, however when they are removed, this device can help improve organizations. It can be extremely useful in different firms such as retail stores, food business, and transportation industries.


Sources:

Stodart,J. (2006, January 23). RFID Technology. Retrieved April 4, 2010, from Privacy Commissioner: http://www.priv.gc.ca/fs-fi/02_05_d_28_e.cfm

Pandey, K. (n.d). Advantages and Disadvantages of RFID Technology. Retrieved April 4, 2010, from Buzzle.com: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-rfid-technology.html