A group of researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have developed a revolutionary anti-tampering ID tag. Notably smaller and significantly less expensive than traditional radio frequency identification (RFID) tags, this evolution could revolutionize the way technology authenticates the legitimacy of a product. But how does it secure itself from the common issue of being removed from an authentic item and placed on a counterfeit one? The solution lies within the utilization of terahertz waves.
Rather than the traditional RFID that uses radio waves, this new ID tag emits a signal through terahertz waves which are not only smaller, but exist at far higher frequencies. This unique frequency allows the tag to be scanned through and read the unique pattern of microscopic metal particles that are mixed into the glue that attaches the tag to its product. This pattern, much akin to a fingerprint, is considered the means of authentication for the item, and results in a unique pattern that is impossible to replicate if the chip is removed and reattached.
The antitampering ID tag is powered by light and is a mere 4 square millimeters in size. These qualities make it ideally suited for small items or medical devices that traditional RFIDs are too large to be attached to. Additionally, due to their low production cost, these tags can effectively be implemented across a vast supply chain.
To polish its process of authentication, the MIT researchers created a machine-learning model which compares and verifies the unique glue patterns of each chip with a stellar 99 percent accuracy. This process, however, does initially require a manual reading of the antitampering tag once it’s attached to the item. The reading is then stored in a cloud database system used later for verification.
Some drawbacks to consider include the high levels of loss that terahertz waves experience during transmission. These losses reduce the effective range to only about 4 centimeters, and thus the sensor must be in close proximity to the tag to read accurately. In addition, it’s also critical that the angle between the sensor and the tag is less than 10 degrees, or the signal will decay too greatly.
Despite the limitations, the researchers are optimistic in future development to create an all-encompassing solution to product and item authentication. They show a steadfast belief in the application of the terahertz spectrum, beyond simply wireless broadband, as the future of security, and product verification.
This project, funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation and the Korea Foundation for Advanced Studies, is a testament to the impressive advancements of technology within our modern era, while still giving us a glimpse at what possibilities the future may hold.
