The researchers at the University of Waterloo are looking for a new security flaw within the networking standard that allows attackers to track WiFi devices through walls. This technique can be identified within the location of certain devices within only 3.3 feet by exploiting the technology's automatic contact responses, even those that are protected by passwords.
It measures the response times and is able to identify all of the connected hardware within a room, even tracking movements if those are holding a smartphone or wearing a smartwatch. To track this, scientists tested a small flying scanning device as the robotic aircraft sends out messages to every device as it flies around in order to detect the positions of each device in a given room.
Wall-Breaching Drone Trackers
Wifi Device Breaches are Studied at the University of Waterloo
Trend Themes
1. Wifi Location Tracking - There is an opportunity for disruptive innovation in developing secure WiFi location tracking devices that can protect the privacy of individuals and organizations.
2. Drone Based Security - Innovation in building drones that can be used with various security protocols can revolutionize the way security is implemented in various industries.
3. Contactless Monitoring Devices - The possibilities of creating efficient contactless monitoring devices that use minimal power and offer high security can be an opportunity for disruptive innovation.
Industry Implications
1. Security Industry - In the security industry, there is a need for developing next-generation security solutions driven by drone-based monitoring.
2. Smart Home Industry - The smart home industry can take advantage of WiFi location tracking to develop efficient home automation systems that prioritize safety and security.
3. Telecommunications Industry - The telecommunications industry can look into developing more secure and efficient WiFi tracking protocols that protect the privacy of individuals and organizations.