European Commission (EC) has asked companies and public authorities to assess effects on privacy and data protection before deploying RFID and contactless smart card technologies. Other recommendations are as follows -
* RFID tag attached to consumer products should automatically deactivate at the point of sale, unless the consumer agrees to a voluntary option to keep the tag active.
* Public authorities using RFID technology should give consumers clear notice if personal data is being collected.
* Retail groups should promote consumer awareness of RFID-tagged products with a common sign indicating when the technology is being used.
What companies are saying -
The practice of deactivating a tag immediately upon purchase of a tagged item unless a consumer expressly opts in is something urged by many consumer advocates. However, many businesses in the RFID sector fought against making an opt-in policy mandatory. Those companies argue that such a requirement would hamper many of RFID’s post-sale benefits, such as more efficient recycling and management of warranties and repairs.
