Pacemaker computer virus

The virus, infecting a chip implanted in Gasson's hand, passed into a laboratory computer. From there, the infection could have spread into other computer chips found in building access cards.

All this was intentional, in an experiment to see how simple radio-frequency identification RFID chips like those used for tracking animals can host and spread technological diseases. The research shows that as implantable bionic devices such as pacemakers get more sophisticated in the years ahead, their security and the safety of the patients whose lives depend on them will become increasingly important, said Gasson.

And just like everyday computers, they can get sick. Gasson had a relatively simple chip implanted in the top of his left hand near his thumb last year. It emits a signal that is read by external sensors, allowing him access to the Reading laboratory and for his cell phone to operate. You can walk through all the broadcase malware in the world, since there is no mechanism for listening to it, storing it, and executing it. I've more than a passing interest in bionics, and beleive it or not, it's a real concern.

Sooner or later, we'll be able to interface directly with machines, and the big concern there is that it breaks down a huge barrier and the question becomes, would it be possible to implant a virus or hack a human brain. I also think, somepleace in there is good idea for a murder mystery but then it may have already been done. Cybernetics are common place, and it's entirely possible to hack into another person's systems and control their senses, or even disrupt body functions.

To continue this discussion, please ask a new question. Get answers from your peers along with millions of IT pros who visit Spiceworks. I stumbled upon this article on the BBC site today Researchers have found that implanted identity chips can pick up computer viruses.

Popular Topics in Antivirus. Spiceworks Help Desk. The help desk software for IT. Track users' IT needs, easily, and with only the features you need. Learn More ». However, Dr Gasson believes that there will be a demand for these non-essential applications, much as people pay for cosmetic surgery. Dr Gasson works at the University of Reading's School of Systems Engineering and will present the results of his research at the International Symposium for Technology and Society in Australia next month.

Professor Capurro will also talk at the event. Smart tags hail the web of things. Consumer concern over RFID tags. Wi-fi and RFID used for tracking. Hiding messages in plain sight.

Steinbeis-Transfer-Institute of Information Ethics. University of Reading. International Symposium for Technology and Society.