As long as RFID tags were kept in the warehouse

As long as RFID tags were kept in the warehouse or distribution center, the public had no immediate need for concern. They were out of sight and out of mind, or underpants. RFID tags and their readers help identify with greater detail, and from a distance, thousands of pallets and cartons. Their use in warehousing is, as such, a no-brainer.

They're no longer confined to the warehouse. They've broken out and are now making their appearances as far afield as groceries and appliance stores, even passports.

Some states are taking this incursion as a serious threat to privacy. California state Sen. Joe Simitian has introduced the Identity Information Protection Act to prohibit the use of RFIDs that can be read remotely, and without a person's knowledge, in all state identity documents, such as drivers' licenses, student IDs and medical cards. According to the newsletter Privacy Journal, other California bills are pending that prevent tagging children and restrict RFID tags on non-state IDs.