Have you ever heard about Neuralink? This startup project aims to implant tiny computer machines into human brains. What could go wrong?
“With great powers, comes great responsibility.”
Let’s see what Tesla Chief, Elon Musk, has between hands about the cybersecurity implications for “Brainjacking.”
Neuralink… Superhuman Brain-Hacking/Brainjacking?
First of all, this wacky technology that looks like coming straight from a science fiction film, it’s closer to exist than you think.
The main goal with it is, to link the human heads to smart devices.
So as in the same fashion that Internet of Things devices is getting hacked today, this one, although, wouldn’t pass by unnoticed: Security researchers confirm that if an invention like this one exists, then bad actors could also find a way to get into people’s thoughts.
Could you imagine getting all your skills, knowledge, and memories stolen or erased?
If you think about it, this wouldn’t take too long before happening after rumors are spread. The same protocols were found with personal computers and smartphones.
So I guess we both agree that this technology needs to be pioneered to avoid all possible vulnerabilities. The good news is, that Musk has invested heavily in Neuralink since 2016.
This device that they promote is a tiny probe with +3,000 electrodes that would attach to flexible threads from the human hair, to monitor brain neuron’s activity.
The man (and company) themselves promote this project as a “full connection with popular smartphone platforms” (as Google Android and Apple iOS).
Like every other invention, they have worked on in the past, this one has its polarizing supporters and opposition.
CNET journalist Jo Best thinks that it could allow actors to control the brain and even turn the thoughts against the victim. Dr. Sasitharan Balasubramaniam also thinks that this “investment could ruin the thinking of a brain.”
But how real and possible could this be?
How much it will cost and when it will be released?
Which apps could be allowed to share data with Neuralink?
Everyone (myself included) still have many doubts and fears related to it.
While most concerns remain theoretical, results from several studies have already pointed out to serious security risks of human x machine integration.
In 2016, Johnson and Johnson warned to have found a security vulnerability in insulin pumps, which let cybercriminals to alter the dosages remotely, at will.
Something similar happened in 2018. Belgium scientists confirmed that wireless brain implants (as neurostimulators) can be hacked with ease. Hackers could small voltage charges to harm or distort its functionality.
Among other harmful activities, we could find data theft, induction of tissue damage, pain, removal of stimulation, drainage of implant batteries, and so.
Think about it: your brain is the CPU of your body, with thoughts and actions processing. So the accurate control of the wireless control stimulators connected to the brain could lead to behavioral or even changes.
If today’s hyper-connected world could teach us something, is that all end-devices are hackable. At a minimum, its development should take a few more hours before hitting commercial markets.
The worst is that brain-hacking wouldn’t be easy to mitigate. Only the most advanced tech could be able to monitor and fix these problems.
Are you still raising questions about its safety and usability? Either you got “brain jacked”… Or you are normally worried about your literal piece of mind.
Doesn’t the happen occurs with your business’ assets?
As Neuralink and every other company working on these chips… Your health needs to reinforce cybersecurity measures.
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