Make Smart Label Much Smarter

Smart Label has been called "small label, big revolution." RFID is short forRadio Frequency Identification, also known as wireless frequency identifier. WhetherSmart Label can fully realize its "intelligent abilities" lately depends on if thequestion of privacy is given its proper attention and a solution. This article's purposeis to discuss the question of legal protection on privacy with regards to RFID.This article will begin with a brief introduction of Smart Label (RFID). Thenfactually define RFID followed by the principals and special characteristics, field ofapplication, development background and market predictions. From these data theverdict on RFID is that its potential is limitless, and it is gradually seeping intopeoples' daily lives. Although RFID is a technology, its wide range of applicationsmakes it seem more like magic.Secondly, this article probes into the question of Smart Label (RFID) and privacyrights, beginning with the introduction of the concept of privacy rights. In fact, to thisday there is no unified agreement on the definition of privacy rights. At its core lies its"to be let alone". As societies evolve, so does the definition. This is followed by anintroduction of the world's current legal protection for privacy rights, includingChina.Lastly, it investigates the hidden dangers that Smart Label (RFID) presents toprivacy rights. As to whether RFID presents a problem for privacy rights, this articlebelieves that because of RFID labels' technical characteristics it can unknowingly leakpersonal information. Therefore, if RFID label usage goes unregulated and is used toconduct surveillance or spy on people's daily activities or personal information; then,it will create an invasion of privacy. Also mentioned is the concept of the right toself-determination, and an analysis and discussion on RFID label and its relation to protecting personal information.Again, this article makes some suggestions regarding Smart Label (RFID) andlegal protection of privacy rights. The problem should first be probed from a legal andtechnical perspective in order to see the fundamental challenges inherent in solvingthis type of problem. These are the three suggestions.The latest technical solutions that are available include, opt-out mode, kill mode,sleep mode, and interrupt mode.This addresses the importance of legal privacy protection with regards to RFID.It is recommended that advanced legal institutions be used as references in theirlegislation trends and absorb their experiences in setting up legislation for RFID. Oneexample is California's Senate Bill 1834; this act is a concrete example for China'sown attempt at legislating privacy laws for Smart Label (RFID).The concept of the public's fight to privacy, and that it should be protected needsto be promoted. The government should take a leadership role in this, and businessesshould continue to improve self-regulation.In the end, whether RFID will be a fleeting "technological myth" or the hope ofthe future will largely depend on a timely solution to the privacy issue. Its successalso depends on whether businesses can prove that RFID will improve profits orincrease competitiveness. In today's "internet of things" era, RFID and privacyprotection needs to be made aware to the people. It also needs cooperation fromenterprises in the form of self-regulation, and technological innovations, as well as thefull support from the legislative courts. If this is done, then any dehumanizationresults arising from privacy issues can be avoided. Therefore, we have reason tobelieve that for Smart Label to become smarter in the future is no pipe dream.