Virginia Tech has developed a program that uses nfc and bluetooth to tablets and smartphones to access the confidential data impossible to create if the user is outside a particular area.
Although similar programs make use of gps-signals, would that in a building not accurate enough. The scientists are therefore using other techniques, including bluetooth and nfc. That will sync the location with a server elsewhere in the building. For example, users in a certain area consent for sensitive information, for example via the phone. If they are outside that space, the data will automatically be remotely wiped. The use of nfc in addition to bluetooth not per se necessary, but according to the developers, “for more assurance that you are actually in that space’.
The software is released under an open source license and runs on a customized version of Android. “This level of complexity and security, nobody has yet. There are several commercial products that this in a limited sense, but that may not be automatically clear data and the settings of apps on smartphones and tablets change”, says researcher Jules White.
Meanwhile, we have different bodies, including the U.s. government and the army, have shown interest. According to Virginia Tech, the software would, however, more purposes could have. The program may be paper for example, to prevent students texting during a lecture.