[Technology Report]
Navigation Systems To Go Beyond Turn-By-Turn Directions
RFID tages and cell-phone GPS will steer consumers directly to their products.
Notes On Security And Privacy The use of RFID tags will become ubiquitous over the next several years. The average consumer, then, will be savvy to the possibilities of identity theft and other security concerns. That's why it seems appropriate to discuss security and privacy with respect to wireless money transactions and the "Big Brother" possibilities that come with devices that can broadcast location.
After all, "tap and go" payment could make thievery easier, which is why you may need to provide a fingerprint along with your payment card (see "What About Security?"). Other means of security include encryption techniques like "rolling code," "challenge-response authentication," or more recently "collision avoidance" to make RFID and NFC transactions more secure.
The rolling code security measure, implemented by means of a pseudorandom number generator, helps reduce the risk of electronic eavesdropping, thwarting unwanted "guests" who attempt to record the RF transmission. A typical application of rolling code is keyless entry systems in which the tag identifier is changed after each scan.
Challenge-response authentication is a potentially encrypted question-and-answer mechanism used to implement security. In its most basic form, it may ask for one or more passwords, and the user is authenticated with the correct response. When implemented in RFID security, the reader communicates to the tag and challenges it. The tag must respond with a secret key devised with added cryptographic circuitry.
For some consumers, privacy is a greater concern than security. The idea that the anti-fungal cream you just purchased is broadcasting its location at all times without your knowledge may not be too appealing. That's why many companies are looking for ways to remove or deactivate the RFID tags after the item has been purchased.
Of course, the ability to track things such as casino chips would be highly desirable—both for the casinos and for their patrons, as legitimate players wouldn't have to check in at every table. Also, such a system would help prevent thefts and counterfeiting. Don't be surprised if you ever decide to pry into a chip used at the Wynn Casino, as you may find more than you bargained for. But hey, don't worry. The casinos will find a way to get that chip back in the blink of an eye.
LOCATION-AWARE COMPUTING TRENDS
Any cell phone will double as a navigation device using downloadable software and the phone's built-in or Bluetooth-connected GPS device.
Before you go shopping, use your cell phone to determine the nearest retail outlet carrying the item, price, number currently in stock, and directions to the store.
Future in-car navigation systems will be in tune with changing conditions and provide valuable information like when a traffic signal is about to change or if an emergency vehicle is approaching.
RFIDs will come to play a major role in the shopping experience, from helping you locate the item in the store to getting you on your way by purchasing all items in one shot.
Androids and Internet appliances will take care of your everyday shopping needs for you in the more distant future.
The future ubiquitous use of RFID tags raises security and privacy concerns, most of which can be overcome with encryption and authentication techniques and consumer education.
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