Factors Affecting RFID Subcutaneous Microchips Usage

Abstract

Microchips are used for many years for different purposes. Nevertheless, recently applications of radio frequency identification technology have been progressed tremendously with the potential to permeate throughout society as valuable tool for enabling automatic identification and management. However, they are perceived as threats at several levels that impede its implementation. Most of the research discusses the adoption of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) devices from the provider’s point of view. Thus, it would be of interest to examine the factors of RFID subcutaneous microchip (RFID-SM) usage, adoption and diffusion by individuals from various perspectives, particularly in developing countries. Knowledge upon the factors that drive RFID adoption is a crucial step in creating the policies required for its successful implementation. This quantitative, descriptive study investigated whether young people in Serbia would be willing to use subcutaneous microchip. Preliminary findings indicate that positive attitudes prevail for the perceived usefulness and ease of use, while suspicions of confidentiality and privacy are strong, and what is most surprising none of the respondents showed willingness to use microchip implants for everyday home activities. Since the process of individual users’ acceptance of technology is very complex, the full range of variables should be investigated from broader perspective.