Challenge to avoid use of cameras in sensitive areas

Khalifa University and Abu Dhabi Polytechnic are organising a competition called the Smart Devices Security and Privacy Contest.

A contest challenging people to look for ways to prevent the use of smart-device cameras in sensitive areas is being organised by Khalifa University and Abu Dhabi Polytechnic.

Winners of the Smart Devices Security and Privacy Contest will be announced in December. The contest was inspired by Emirates Skills, where Khalifa University had previously organised a cyber-security competition.

In its first year, the contest will focus on ways to prevent the use of smart-device cameras in sensitive areas such as military bases. Submissions are invited from students and professionals as the contest also hopes to identify young people who excel at cyber security.

Contestants must develop a hardware or software solution that would prevent people from using cameras in certain areas or during events. The solutions must control cameras in smart devices independent from their platforms, and must prove secure so event managers do not have to confiscate devices. Wireless jamming is not allowed as a solution. The main target is to control the camera without disabling other services such as phone calls and text messages.

The deadline for submissions is September 30.

“Smart devices have become an integral part of our daily lives and studies indicate that these devices are one of the fastest spreading technologies in history,” said Dr Mohammed Al Mualla, senior vice president of research and development at Khalifa University. “The UAE’s efforts towards smart government reinforces the importance of these devices, but at the same time calls for the need to ensure the safe use of such technologies.

“We hope that this contest stimulates thinking and innovation in this direction. We look forward to seeing the participation of students and professionals in the field.”

Dr Ahmed Al Awar, director of Abu Dhabi Polytechnic, said: “This contest was designed to introduce the growing importance of information security to high school students. The competition is considered a special event that allows students and professionals to develop knowledge and experience on the means and tools to protect the security of widespread smart devices.”