In an unprecedented security move, officials for this summer's Olympic games in China have announced that tickets for the opening and closing ceremonies will be embedded with a microchip containing the bearer's photograph, passport details, addresses, e-mail and telephone numbers.

China has also recently toughened visa restrictions and has increased checks at hotels and entertainment areas. Officials say these measures are designed to keep track of foreigners as the games approach. The International Olympic Committee has said it is comfortable with China's security measures, including the electronic chips in tickets. Critics cite concerns about privacy and identity theft as well as possible delays at the turnstiles as spectators enter.

In addition to concerns about possible terrorist acts, Chinese officials fear protesters might unfurl Tibet flags, anti-China banners or other offensive messages. Read more about the measures here.

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