In an era of rapid artificial intelligence development, drones and robots are increasingly becoming part of daily life. However, their growing adoption also introduces potential security threats, including the risk of terrorist attacks. In a recent interview with Sing Tao Headline, Prof. ZHANG Dan of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) shared his insights on the security risks associated with robotics and 3D printing technologies, as well as measures to guard against their misuse.
Prof. Zhang pointed out that robots offer distinct advantages, including the ability to operate without fatigue, respond rapidly and perform highly precise movements. However, they also face a high risk of being maliciously modified and weaponised. Because the low-level drive control systems of many robots rely on open architectures without encryption, virtually anyone can modify the software for secondary development. When integrated with facial recognition technology, these machines could be used to identify and track specific targets. Furthermore, as 3D printing becomes more accessible and affordable, malicious actors can easily fabricate components for harmful purposes and integrate them into robotic platforms
To prevent the weaponisation of robots, Prof. Zhang urged manufacturers to implement encryption safeguards before products are released to the market, restrict devices from connecting to external networks, and require buyers to sign agreements prohibiting unauthorised modifications. He also called on governments to establish dedicated legal frameworks as soon as possible to clarify legal liabilities and introduce traceability mechanisms to monitor the supply chain of core components, thereby tackling illegal modification and counterfeiting at the source
Prof. ZHANG is a member of Research Institute for Advanced Manufacturing (RIAM), Research Institute for Artificial Intelligence of Things (RIAIoT), Research Institute for Intelligent Wearable Systems (RI-IWEAR), Otto Poon Charitable Foundation Research Institute for Smart Energy (RISE) and Research Centre of Textiles for Future Fashion (RCTFF).
Online coverage:
Sing Tao Headline - https://polyu.me/4pTFVfq; https://polyu.me/4w92kHc
| Research Units | Research Institute for Advanced Manufacturing | Research Institute for Generative Artificial Intelligence | Research Institute for Intelligent Wearable Systems | Otto Poon Charitable Foundation Research Institute for Smart Energy | Research Centre of Textiles for Future Fashion |
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