Over 4.000 Swedes Have Received Microchip Implants And Are Using Them To Access Literally Everything

Only two decades ago, the concept of inserting microchips into the general populace was considered to be a far-off, futuristic idea. However, today, it’s a reality. In Sweden, over 4,000 residents have received microchip implants which contain details about their identities. For more than a year, participants have been using this miniature technology to bypass the need for cash, movie and concert tickets, and even access into their houses and offices.

According to the Daily Mail, the market leader behind the controversial scheme is BioHax International. The company was founded by Jowan Osterlund, a former professional body piercer, five years ago.

The most widespread purpose of the microtechnology has been to have access to the SJ Rail. According to the train operator, about 100 people were using microchips to pay for their journey in June of 2017. More than a year later, that number has likely increased.

To use the embedded technology, commuters need to hold their hand steady while the train conductor reads the chip with a smartphone. With their device, they can confirm the passenger paid for the journey. The commuter is then invited to board.

Of course, the process has not been an entirely smooth one. And, there are risks involved. Some have argued that microchip IDs increase the risk of “body-hackers” gaining access to private data. In the past, glitches with the social media platform LinkedIn also occurred.

When the SJ Rail started accepting microchip ID information, it would not be unusual for rail staff to be shown a passenger’s Linkedin profile instead of their ticket information.

The use of microchip technology is rising. The trend is undoubtedly controversial. Being embedded with a microchip means one is always “on the grid.” As a result, people are essentially trading freedom for security. As of now, this trade is voluntary.