A video of a woman named Burgundy Waller, nicknamed “Chip Girl” on TikTok, has gone viral, showcasing her use of a radio-frequency identification (RFID) chip implanted in her right hand to pay for groceries. Waller had the chip inserted in 2020, initially to replace her keys, but she has now expanded its use to include making payments.
In the TikTok video, Waller successfully uses the chip in her hand to complete a grocery purchase, and her elation is evident as she exclaims, “That’s the coolest thing ever.” While she finds the convenience of the chip impressive, the video has evoked strong reactions from others.
Some viewers expressed concern and even horror at the idea of implanting technology in the body for such purposes. This sentiment is often intertwined with references to the “mark of the beast” from the Book of Revelation, a biblical reference that fuels fear about personal liberties and control by a central authority.
Many users of the platform noted that this incident is just one more indicator of the government’s push towards a cashless society. This trajectory aligns with the global movement towards digital currencies. While digital currency might seem convenient and efficient, there are concerns about the potential loss of individual control and privacy. Critics worry that in a fully digital economy, a person’s financial accounts could be arbitrarily closed or restricted by the government for expressing opinions or engaging in activities that are considered undesirable.
This issue is not solely about technological advancement but is often interpreted as a step towards an increased surveillance state. Skeptics fear that in a cashless society, personal financial data could be monitored and controlled by a centralized authority, thereby infringing on individual freedoms. The video and the ensuing reactions highlight the broader debates around personal autonomy, government control, and the potential unintended consequences of embracing certain technological advancements.
