The article discusses a new initiative by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to combat cybersecurity threats posed by Internet of Things (IoT) devices within homes. DHS has developed a robot designed to execute Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks against malicious IoT devices that have been compromised and are being used as part of a botnet to perform large-scale cyberattacks. These compromised devices, referred to as “booby traps,” can be everyday household items like smart thermostats, cameras, and fridges that hackers exploit to launch attacks on a larger scale.

The robot, named NEO, is engineered to identify and neutralize these threats by isolating the compromised devices and disrupting their ability to communicate with the botnet. This innovative approach is part of DHS’s broader strategy to enhance national cybersecurity by proactively targeting the growing threat from IoT devices, which are notoriously difficult to secure due to their varied nature and often weak built-in security measures.

DHS’s deployment of NEO represents a significant advancement in the ongoing battle against cyber threats. The use of a DDoS robot to fight DDoS attacks showcases a novel method of turning the tables on cybercriminals, leveraging the same techniques used by attackers to defend against them. This move is expected to provide a valuable tool in the protection of both individual households and the broader internet infrastructure.

The development of NEO is in response to the increasing number of cyberattacks involving IoT devices, which have become a popular target for hackers due to their widespread use and often lax security. By disrupting these booby traps before they can be used in large-scale attacks, DHS aims to reduce the risk of significant damage to critical infrastructure and personal data.

In summary, the introduction of DHS’s NEO robot marks a proactive step in cybersecurity, specifically targeting the vulnerabilities within IoT devices. This initiative underscores the importance of developing new technologies to protect against evolving cyber threats. 

Summary by ChatGPT.com
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The Biomechatronics and Intelligent Robotics Lab at North Carolina State University has developed an AI-powered exoskeleton to assist both disabled and non-disabled individuals with movement. Key points include:

1. The exoskeleton consists of a fanny pack, thigh sensors, and buckles, allowing users to control it within 10-20 seconds of putting it on.
2. It uses AI to interpret joint angles and adapt to surroundings, helping users move in their intended direction.
3. The device learns through virtual simulation in about 8 hours, eliminating the need for lengthy human-robot coordination training.
4. It can assist with walking, running, and stair climbing, reducing energy expenditure by 13-24% compared to unassisted movement.
5. Researchers aim to adapt the technology for elderly people and children with mobility impairments like cerebral palsy.
6. An upper body exoskeleton is also being developed for stroke recovery and ALS patients.
7. The current cost of materials is around $10,000, which is lower than commercially available exoskeletons, but researchers aim to make it more affordable and accessible.
8. The project is funded by the National Science Foundation and National Institute for Health.

The researchers are working on improving comfort, human-centered design, and affordability to make the technology more widely available.

Summary by Claude | Republished with permission from Discovr.Ai