Drones that can see through walls

An application called "Wi-Peek" by a team of experts from the University of Waterloo (Ontario, Canada) has successfully taught a remote-controlled aircraft to use local WiFi to see through walls, by using network signals in a certain area.

While this is a huge step forward in imaging and drone technology, it also raises concerns about privacy and security.

Security in the modern world

The Waterloo team of experts presents their discovery as both a security vulnerability and a technical advance. It all depends on a type of technology they call “polite Wi-Fi.” In many cases, smart devices will automatically connect to nearby signals, even if the network is password-protected. By sending messages and measuring response times, Wi-Peep can map the location of smart devices inside.

Wi-Peep devices look like light in the visible spectrum, while walls look like they are made of glass, according to Dr. Ali Abedi, an associate professor of computer science at the University of Waterloo. By tracking the location of a cell phone or smartwatch, thieves could use the same technology to track the movements of bank security guards.

Given the accessibility and ease of use of this technology, it is likely to soon become part of the everyday technological landscape. However, incorporating such an attractive but potentially dangerous device into everyday life will clearly present challenges.

According to VTC News