Brain-computer interfaces in safety and security fields: Risks and applications

Abstract

With the recent increasing interest of researchers for Brain-Computer Interface (BCI), emerges a challenge for safety and security fields. Thus, the general objective of this research is to explore, from an engineering perspective, the trends and main research needs on the risks and applications of BCIs in safety and security fields. In addition, the specific objective is to explore the BCIs as an emerging risk. The method used consists of the sequential application of two phases. The first phase is carried out a scoping literature review. And with the second phase, the BCIs are analyzed as an emerging risk. With the first phase, thematic categories are analyzed. The categories are fatigue detection, safety control, and risk identification within the safety field. And within the security field are the categories cyberattacks and authentication. As a result, a trend is identified that considers the BCI as a source of risk and as a technology for risk prevention. Also, another trend based on the definitions and concepts of safety and security applied to BCIs is identified. Thus, “BCI safety” and “BCI security” are defined. The second phase proposes a general emerging risk framing of the BCI technology based on the qualitative results of type, level, and management strategies for emerging risk. These results define a framework for studying the safety and security of BCIs. In addition, there are two challenges. Firstly, to design techniques to assess the BCI risks. Secondly, probably more critical, to define the tolerability criteria of individual and social risk.