I picked up August issue of New Scientist and came across article about Radio Frequency Identification chips. I was amazed to discover that while we debate the ethics of such technology, it's use continues to make in roads into our lives. I was surprised to read that RFID implants are being used in Spain. Is this the first clear evidence that this technology will be used as the "mark of the beast" ?
I did'nt buy the magazine, but went on line for more information and found an old article (MAY 04) that mentions the use of RFID in a Spanish night club. Here is the opening paragraphs of the article from the New Scientist.
"Clubbers in Spain are choosing to receive a microchip implant instead of carrying a membership card. It is the latest and perhaps the most unlikely of uses for implantable radio frequency ID chips.The Baja Beach Club in Barcelona offers people signing up for VIP membership a choice between an RFID chip and a normal card. VIP members can jump the entrance queues, reserve a table and use the nightclub's VIP lounge.
"The RFID chip is not compulsory," says Conrad Chase, managing director of the club. But he says there are advantages to having it. The obvious one is that you do not have to carry a membership card around with you, but also it means you can leave your wallet at home. This is because the RFID can be used as an in-house debit card, says Chase.
When drinks are ordered the RFID is scanned with a handheld device and the cost is added to your bill. The chips, called VeriChips, are produced by US company Applied Digital Solutions. "