PCPD DATABASE ENTRY T-03: BID CHIP TECHNOLOGY

The BID chip is a bio-identification microchip, smaller than a grain of rice, that is implanted under the skin (in the fleshy part of the hand between the thumb and index finger). Around 95% of the population has them and many are implanted at an early age.

Designed to function as a universal identity token, the BID chip serves multiple purposes: it contains an individual’s identification data, medical records, driver’s license, bank account information, and can be used to make financial transactions. With the use of a BID chip, an individual’s unique bio-data may also be “keyed” to log into electronic devices, access smart tech applications, start a vehicle, and even unlock doors.

BID CHIPS AND FIREARMS

The law mandates that weapon manufacturers must make their firearms in accordance with the Telson Act “Smart Gun” provision. As such, every gun is now equipped with a chip that “communicates” a signal solely to its user’s BID chip. Only a registered user can fire their own weapon. Any individual who attempts to use a firearm already registered to someone else will find the weapon “ID-locked” and will be unable to compress the trigger.

The BID chip implementation prevents criminals from getting their hands on a gun, or allowing anyone to steal a police firearm. In the event an individual attempts to commit a crime with a gun, the weapon could be remotely jammed by the central computer at police HQ. Recently, many public locations have designated “Safe Zones” where guns will not fire (except for police-issued weapons). The inclusion of chips makes weapons easier to track as well.

However, due to this “smart gun” technology utilizing the BID chips, most criminals must seek out black-market firearms that have not been upgraded or BID-locked yet. While these older model weapons are becoming increasingly difficult to find, an estimated 2.6 million non-BID integrated firearms still exist. Recent underground crime rings have recently resorted to 3D printed guns (even if they can be unreliable and prone to failure).

Danger Zone One. Story by Midnight. Art by Katsu.