ANKARA
With implantable brain chips, there is a risk that the devices could be hacked for malicious intentions and hackers could involuntarily turn users into “killing machines,” according to a Turkish IT specialist.
Elon Musk unveiled in late August a pig that had a computer chip in its brain for two months, in hopes that the small device would be able to “read” from neurons and “write” signals to the brain.
Musk said his four-year-old neuroscience company, Neuralink, is “preparing for the first human implementation soon.”
But that revelation worries Rahmi Aktepe, who heads the Informatics Association of Turkey.
“If the chip in question is widely used, it is possible to control people against their will and even turn them into a killing machine by seizing the chip,” he told Anadolu Agency.
One scary scenario could involve users being controlled and unconsciously acting because they cannot decide if their actions are ethical or even true. They could steal the possessions of others or, in the worst-case, kill.
All kinds of computer-based systems can be hacked by cyber attackers, he said, and it is obvious that Neuralink’s tiny computer chip can also be seized and used for malicious purposes.
Aktepe said the main purpose of brain-computer interface (BCI) studies is to learn about the human brain, and to treat memory loss, hearing loss, depression and similar diseases by monitoring and changing brain signals.
“However, no one can claim that this will definitely not to be used to control people in the future,” said Aktepe.
There is a hidden aim of the chips he described as a “project of creating smart people versus smart robots.”
With advancements in artificial intelligence and robots getting smarter by the day, Musk could potentially create the best and smartest version of humans with his chip to make the user act faster or possibly memorize everything, like a computer.
Chips can damage mental, physical health
“I think the main purpose is to load brain signals received from people to smart robots and/or load those signals to people, turning them into robots,” said Aktepe.
“If the chips are used within ethical frameworks, people can make faster and correct decisions since it is supported by artificial intelligence,” he said, highlighting the importance of ethical matters.
Aktepe warned that new viruses will be created and it would lead users to act unethically and damage their mental and physical health.
If a computer virus was to enter a chip, it could potentially damage not only a user’s brain but other parts or functions,.
The chip is about the size of a large coin and can be fully embedded in the skull and without harm to brain over time, said Musk.
The all-day battery can be charged wirelessly via an induction coil.
“Almost everyone overtime will develop brain and spine problems,” Musk said, and the goal is to “solve important spine and brain problems with a seamlessly implanted device.”
Musk, also the founder of SpaceX and Tesla Motors, gave no exact schedule for the chips' release, nor details on how they would cure neurological conditions.
I am an expert and enthusiast with expertise in various fields, and I'd like to provide insights related to the concepts mentioned in the article you provided regarding implantable brain chips and their potential risks. My knowledge is based on a deep understanding of technology, cybersecurity, neuroscience, and related topics.
In the article, there are several key concepts and concerns related to implantable brain chips, which are associated with Elon Musk's Neuralink project and the potential risks associated with them:
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Implantable Brain Chips: These are devices designed to be embedded in the human brain. They are often used for various purposes, including monitoring and altering brain signals.
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Neuralink: Elon Musk's company focused on developing brain-computer interface (BCI) technologies. The company aims to create devices that can interface with the human brain to address neurological conditions and enhance human capabilities.
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Hacking Concerns: The article mentions the risk of these brain chips being hacked for malicious purposes. This concern is valid because any electronic device connected to a network can potentially be vulnerable to cyberattacks.
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Unintended Control: The article raises concerns about the possibility of hackers using the implanted chips to control individuals against their will, potentially leading to unethical actions or even violence.
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Ethical Considerations: Ethical concerns are highlighted in the article, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that the technology is used responsibly and within ethical frameworks. This is crucial to prevent misuse of BCIs.
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Medical Applications: BCIs are primarily developed for medical applications, such as treating memory loss, hearing loss, depression, and other neurological conditions. However, concerns exist regarding their potential dual use for non-medical purposes.
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AI and Smart Robots: The article discusses the idea that advanced BCIs could potentially enhance human capabilities to the point where users could act faster or even "memorize everything" like a computer. This concept relates to the integration of AI with BCIs.
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Health Risks: The article mentions concerns about the long-term health effects of implantable brain chips. While the technology aims to address neurological problems, there may be potential risks and unknown consequences associated with it.
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Viruses and Cybersecurity: The article highlights the possibility of computer viruses entering the chips, leading to potential damage not only to a user's brain but also to other bodily functions. Cybersecurity and virus protection are essential aspects of implantable technology.
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Battery and Implantation: Technical details about the chip's size, implantation procedure, and wireless charging are provided. These details give insight into the physical aspects of the technology.
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Neurological Conditions: The article mentions that the goal is to solve important spine and brain problems with implantable devices. However, specific details about how the chips would cure these conditions are not provided.
In summary, the article raises valid concerns about the ethical, cybersecurity, and health implications of implantable brain chips. While BCIs have the potential to offer significant benefits in medical and technological advancements, careful consideration of these concerns and the development of ethical guidelines are crucial to ensure responsible and safe use of this technology.
