RFID systems: applications vs. security and privacy implications

In this chapter, we discuss the business implications, as well as security and privacy issues, of the widespread deployment of radio frequency identification (RFID) systems. We first describe, in more detail, the components that make up an RFID system to facilitate better understanding of the implications of each, and then review the commercial applications of the RFID. We then discuss the security and privacy issues for RFID systems and what mechanisms have been proposed to safeguard these. The topics discussed in this chapter highlight the benefits of using RFIDs for user convenience in ubiquitous and pervasive commercial services and e-businesses, while maintaining the integrity of such systems against malicious attacks on the users' security and privacy. This is vital for a business establishment to coexist with peers and remain competitively attractive to customers.