Researchers Used A.I. to Turn Wi-Fi Routers into "Cameras" That Can See People Through Walls

Introduction

A recent claim has emerged suggesting that researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed technology that allows Wi-Fi routers to function as devices capable of "seeing" people through walls. This technology reportedly utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze Wi-Fi signals, enabling the detection and tracking of human movements and shapes in three-dimensional space. The implications of such a technology raise significant privacy concerns, prompting discussions about its potential applications and ethical considerations.

What We Know

1. Research Origin: The research is primarily attributed to a team at Carnegie Mellon University, which has been exploring the use of Wi-Fi signals for human detection and tracking. The technology builds on previous studies that utilized radio signals to map human bodies and movements 139.

2. Technical Mechanism: The system reportedly employs a deep neural network to analyze changes in Wi-Fi signals as they reflect off human bodies. This allows the detection of key points on the body, effectively creating a skeletal model of individuals even when obstructed by walls 1810.

3. Potential Applications: The researchers suggest that this technology could be beneficial in contexts such as home healthcare, where traditional monitoring methods (like cameras) may be intrusive. It could allow for monitoring without direct visual observation, which some might find more acceptable 69.

4. Privacy Concerns: The ability to detect human shapes and movements through walls raises significant privacy issues. Experts have voiced concerns about the potential misuse of such technology, particularly in residential settings 46.

Analysis

The claim that Wi-Fi routers can "see" through walls is supported by several sources, primarily focusing on the research conducted at Carnegie Mellon University.

• Source Reliability:

  • Popular Mechanics and ZDNet are generally regarded as credible outlets for technology news, often providing well-researched articles 16.
  • ZME Science and Tech the Lead also report on scientific advancements but may cater to a more general audience, which can sometimes lead to oversimplification of complex topics 24.
  • Independent and Interesting Engineering have a mixed reputation; while they cover significant technological advancements, their articles can sometimes lack depth or critical analysis 35.

• Methodological Concerns: The methodology behind the research, while promising, has not been detailed extensively in the available sources. Understanding the specific algorithms used, the accuracy of the detection, and the conditions under which the technology operates would be critical for evaluating its effectiveness and reliability.

• Conflicts of Interest: The researchers' affiliations with Carnegie Mellon University lend credibility, but potential conflicts of interest should be considered, especially if the technology is commercialized. The motivations behind the research (e.g., funding sources, partnerships with tech companies) could influence how the findings are presented and interpreted.

• Contradicting Perspectives: While many sources highlight the innovative aspects of this technology, there is a lack of critical voices questioning its feasibility or potential drawbacks. More diverse perspectives, particularly from privacy advocates or independent researchers, would provide a more balanced view of the implications of this technology.

Conclusion

Verdict: Mostly True

The assertion that researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed technology enabling Wi-Fi routers to "see" people through walls is largely supported by credible sources and the underlying research. The technology utilizes AI to analyze Wi-Fi signals, allowing for the detection of human movements and shapes, which could have significant applications in fields like healthcare.

However, the claim is nuanced by several factors. While the foundational research appears valid, the specifics of the technology's effectiveness, accuracy, and potential privacy implications remain underexplored in the available literature. There are also concerns regarding the potential for misuse and the ethical ramifications of such capabilities, which have not been fully addressed.

Moreover, the lack of comprehensive details about the methodology and the absence of critical perspectives on the feasibility and implications of this technology contribute to a degree of uncertainty. As such, while the claim holds substantial merit, it is essential for readers to approach this information with a critical mindset and consider the broader context and potential limitations of the research.

Readers are encouraged to evaluate information critically and remain aware of the evolving nature of technological advancements and their implications.

Sources

1. Scientists Use WiFi to See Through People's Walls - Popular Mechanics [https://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/security/a42575068/scientists-use-wifi-to-see-through-walls/]
2. WiFi routers can see people through walls. Here’s how … - ZME Science [https://www.zmescience.com/feature-post/technology-articles/computer-science/wifi-router-sees-people-through-walls/]
3. AI can ‘see’ people through walls using WiFi signals - Independent [https://www.independent.co.uk/tech/ai-wifi-artificial-intelligence-privacy-b2268882.html]
4. New Report: Scientists Can Now Use WiFi to ‘See’ … - Tech the Lead [https://techthelead.com/new-report-scientists-can-now-use-wifi-to-see-people-through-walls/]
5. A breakthrough system can see through walls by using … - Interesting Engineering [https://www.interestingengineering.com/innovation/see-through-walls-using-wi-fi-routers]
6. Scientists use Wi-Fi routers to see humans through walls - ZDNet [https://www.zdnet.com/article/scientists-use-wifi-routers-to-see-humans-through-walls/]
7. Wi-Fi Routers Used to Detect Human Locations, Poses … - Tom's Hardware [https://www.tomshardware.com/news/wi-fi-routers-used-to-detect-human-locations-poses-within-a-room]
8. Researchers Used AI To Turn Wifi Routers Into 'Cameras' That Can See People Through Walls - Prince EA [https://www.princeea.com/ai-wifi-routers-see-through-walls/]
9. Researchers demonstrate improved system that "sees" … - TechSpot [https://www.techspot.com/news/97307-researchers-develop-system-sees-humans-through-walls-using.html]
10. Researchers Turn WiFi Router into A Device That Sees Through Walls - element14 Community [https://community.element14.com/technologies/sensor-technology/b/blog/posts/researchers-turn-wifi-router-into-a-device-that-sees-through-walls]