The explosive growth of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology in supply chain management applications has been augmented by newer and more controversial uses with consumer products, and for security, personal identification, and surveillance. This paper examines some of the recent developments associated with RFID that pertain to privacy concerns. Examples of applications that have generated debate are described and analyzed. Finally, implications for engineering managers are discussed. These include understanding the wide range of potential applications for this technology, understanding criticisms and concerns offered by privacy advocates, and considering the impact of the technology on managing people within one's organization.