NYT on RFID Tags

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Posted by michael on Tuesday February 25, 2003 @08:40AM from the close-shave dept.

indros13 writes "The NY Times is running a story on the radio tagging of merchandise. Companies like Gillette want to make sure their razors are in stock and stores like Wal-Mart want to make sure you can find your paisley panties, size 10. But what happens to privacy when everything you buy can be tracked from store floor to door?"

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doh! by shadwwulf · 2003-02-25 08:42 · Score: 5, Funny

My cross dressing days are over! Everybody will know I'm wearing paisley panties!
I just want... by swordboy · 2003-02-25 08:43 · Score: 4, Funny

I think that it'd be cool if my Hello Kitty stuffed animal could identify things via RFID...

Basketball: Hello Kitty!
Kitty: Hello Basketball!

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Life is the leading cause of death in America.
1. Re:I just want... by IanBevan · 2003-02-25 09:09 · Score: 4, Funny
  
  Basketball: Hello Kitty!
  Kitty: Hello Basketball!
  
  or
  
  Basketball: Hello Kitty!
  Kitty: Holy crap, a talking basketball!
  
  --
  Never, ever lose a file again. Ever.
hmm radio tags... by cosmic_whiner · 2003-02-25 08:44 · Score: 4, Funny

So, does this mean that the (in)famous walmart $300 PC now sells with built in 802.11???
Where can I get my..... by dan+g · 2003-02-25 08:47 · Score: 4, Funny

...Faraday shopping bag?
thwarting big bruvver by Spudley · 2003-02-25 08:49 · Score: 5, Funny

But what happens to privacy when everything you buy can be tracked from store floor to door?

If you're really worried about them tracking your RF tags, try mailling them to Siberia or something. If they really are watching you, that ought to get their attention.

*bzzt* rf-control to watcher-one. he is currently travelling on a fed-ex jet to moscow with his latest consignment of razor blades. over" *bzzt*
*bzzt* "roger rf-control. will continue tracking and advise, over" *bzzt*

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(Spudley Strikes Again!)
Hey, look on the bright side... by bovilexics · 2003-02-25 08:49 · Score: 5, Funny
There actually could be some benefits to this. With this type of technology you could find many upsides such as:
- Never having to worry about losing things like remote controls, car keys, and pets (wearing a collar with an RFID of course).
- Know who is at your doorstep without the use peepholes or cameras.
- Being able to be at the office and say, "Hey, going commando again today, huh? It's not even casual Friday."
The possiblities are endless! Embrace the benifits of new technology, it's all for your own good.

Ok, I'm done - sarcasm off. I still think the office thing would be fun though.
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Are you bovilexic? Moo!
What happens? by maxbang · 2003-02-25 08:51 · Score: 5, Funny

Winona Ryder goes to prison.

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I also reply below your current threshold.
Re:is this really a privacy concern? by quintessent · 2003-02-25 08:58 · Score: 4, Funny

Also, can they be completely deactivated, so that even unusual equipment cannot track your stuff everywhere.

Weight Watchers talking sign: 'Sir, we notice you've been buying bigger blue jeans lately. How about stepping in to your local Weight Watchers center?'

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Donate background CPU time to fight cancer.
Re:That's not really the problem. by dr_dank · 2003-02-25 09:15 · Score: 4, Funny

Suddenly You and your panties are trackable in every store you go to

Taking this suggestion from the automobile tire RFID thread, why not just swap panties with strangers?

Take THAT Big Brother!

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Where does the school board find them and why do they keep sending them to ME?
If you want privacy... by halepark · 2003-02-25 10:57 · Score: 4, Funny

just microwave your panties before you wear them. Not only will they be nice and toasty but the RFID will be fried.