Implanted Microchips to Verify Identity?

An article in the June 5, 2010 Sydney Morning Herald (Australia) describes how one man is using an implanted radio frequency identification (RFID) microchip to verify his identity when he logs on to his computer, unlocks his car, etc. Washington State resident Amal Graafstra is one of approximately 300 people worldwide who have had an RFID chip implanted in their body. In Mr. Graafstra’s case, the chip, the size of a grain of rice, was implanted in his hand by a cosmetic surgeon in a five minute procedure.

Once the chip is implanted, various devices (e.g., locks, etc.) can be programmed to recognize the device. In spite of undergoing the implant, it’s interesting to note that Mr. Graafstra believes biometrics – including voice -- will prove superior for verifying identity. His stated goal is simply to create a dialogue on technology and its uses.

The article points out some additional potential benefits of the technology, such as the ability to “identify an Alzheimer's patient who has become lost or warn that an unconscious patient is allergic to penicillin.” However, there are obviously a myriad of social and privacy concerns as well. We’ll have to keep an eye on this one.