Stiftung ear clarifies when RFID tags need to be registered
In recent weeks, there has been some confusion as to whether the Open Scope being introduced in Germany this year will result in products that are fitted with RFID tags being subject to the ElektroG and therefore having to be registered with stiftung ear. Stiftung ear has now issued a statement on this. It distinguishes between products with and without RFID functionality for the end user.
Products that do not offer end users RFID functionality do not need to be registered. This includes RFID tags used by retailers to prevent theft or to manage their operations. In such cases, the RFID tags are often stuck or sewn to the product or the packaging. Clothes with integrated RFID tags also belong to this category and do not become electronic equipment.
Products with RFID tags that are built into the product, on the other hand, and in which the RFID functionality is aimed at the end user, are considered electronic equipment within the meaning of the ElektroG and must therefore be registered with stiftung ear. According to stiftung ear, this is the case “whenever the proper operation of the device is only possible thanks to the functionality of the RFID tag, or when it is modified by the RFID tag.” This includes RFID tags for access systems, for example.
Further information about the Open Scope in Germany: