A group of Wuhan University students in China have invented the InvisDefense clothing, which makes wearers invisible to AI-powered surveillance cameras. VICE reports.
The project won the top prize at a cybersecurity innovation competition, held with the support of Chinese tech giant Huawei.
The development works around the clock. By day, the camouflage looks like a print on clothing and can mislead devices operating in the visible spectrum.
At night, however, AI cameras identify people using infrared radiation. The InvisDefense-integrated structure heats up and creates a distinctive thermal pattern, rendering the person invisible.
\”We employed an algorithm to create the least noticeable image that could render AI device vision ineffective,\” said one of the study’s authors, Wei Hui.
The students tested the clothing on cameras installed on campus. Their recognition accuracy dropped by 57%.
\”AI-powered surveillance devices are everywhere. Our privacy is constantly at risk,\” Wei noted.
He added that InvisDefense is intended to protect personal data and people’s safety in various circumstances.
In the future, the team plans to create invisibility for AI systems in objects such as inanimate items and moving vehicles. They are also studying other cameras, including satellites, remote-sensing cameras, and those installed on aircraft.
According to the team, they do not intend to undermine China\’s broad surveillance apparatus; instead, they aim to strengthen it.
\”The fact that security cameras cannot detect InvisDefense clothing means they are faulty,\” Wei said.
Earlier, researchers at the University of Maryland created a sweater that hides people from recognition systems.
In December 2021, German designers presented a poncho capable of \”tricking\” AI cameras.
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