Can Neuralink Be Hacked? Cybersecurity Experts Weigh-In - Hacking Concerns

Shidonna Raven
Sep 2
3 min read

February 7, 2024

Source: Compass

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Cybersecurity Experts Weigh in on Neuralink Hacking Concerns

In an era where the concept of a 'brain hacked' scenario is transitioning from fiction to reality, questions about 'how to stop brain hacking' and the potential risks of 'hacked humans' have become increasingly pertinent. As we delve into the realm of advanced neural technologies like Neuralink, understanding these risks and exploring mitigation strategies is crucial. Industry experts have recently shared their insights on the complexities of safeguarding our most private and powerful organ – the human brain – from cyber threats.

Roger Grimes, a cybersecurity expert with 35 years of experience, has expressed concerns about the vulnerability of Elon Musk's Neuralink AI brain chip to hacking. In a recent interview with The U.S. Sun, Grimes, who has written numerous books on computer security and consults for major corporations, highlighted several potential hacking challenges and risks associated with the chip. He pointed out that, currently, the chips are not clearly advertised as Internet-connected, which reduces cybersecurity risks, but cybercriminals would still need to overcome several obstacles. These include understanding the chip's unique operating system, which is likely not common software, making it harder to hack. Additionally, hacking would probably require physical proximity to the chip and specific knowledge of its technical workings.

Grimes emphasized that despite these challenges, the possibility of hacking cannot be ignored, citing previous instances where medical devices were compromised. He questioned the difference between those devices and Neuralink's chip. While he believes it is unlikely that the chip will be hacked soon due to these mitigating factors, he warned of the severe dangers of Neuralink if a hack were to occur. Past medical device hacks have endangered users' lives, and given the nature of the brain chip, similar incidents could have deadly outcomes. Grimes's concerns highlight the need for robust security measures in the development and deployment of such advanced medical technologies.

Alex Laurie, Senior Vice President at ForgeRock, also commented on the potential cybersecurity implications of implantable brain–computer interfaces. In a conversation with the Daily Star, he emphasized the necessity for Neuralink to implement robust anti-hacking systems from the outset. He explained that Neuralink's current design allows users to control a computer through an app on their phone, creating a link between the brain and external devices. Laurie highlighted the potential hacking risks within Neuralink, the app, and the connected computer, warning that hackers could falsely manipulate the system to make it appear as though the user is issuing commands they are not.

Laurie further explained the possible dangers hackers could pose to individuals with the Neuralink chip. While there is uncertainty about the extent of physical harm hackers could cause, Laurie noted that they could gain access to personal medical information or imitate the user's activity history. As Neuralink progresses to medical trials, Laurie believes the company likely has strong security protocols in place. However, he stressed the importance of additional measures to protect users' identities, like not using real names. Laurie also remarked on the potential benefits of Neuralink, suggesting it could significantly improve lives. He emphasized that the broader technology ecosystem must adapt to support this advancement, including the need to protect the extended concept of self, which encompasses embedded devices and their network interactions.

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