Frequently Asked Questions

Can RFID tags in consumer products be deactivated before the customer leaves the store?

Yes. This is known as the “kill” command. The reader sends a code to the tag that turns the tag off permanently. When RFID systems are fully deployed in stores and most products have RFID tags in their packaging (this won’t happen for at least 10 years), each checkout counter will likely have an RFID reader that can kill the tags. In the mean time, companies will likely place kiosks near the exits of stores, so consumers who wish to can kill the tags. Products will have symbols indicating that the package contains a tag and retailers may remove the tags at the time of checkout if consumers want them removed.