PERF warns AI and cheap drones raise risks for US cities

In short: A police research group says artificial intelligence and cheaper drones are making malicious drone use a growing safety risk in U.S. cities.

What's going on

The Police Executive Research Forum, or PERF, is warning that fast progress in artificial intelligence, also called AI (computer systems that can make decisions or spot patterns), is combining with cheaper and more capable drones. PERF says this mix increases the chance that drones could be used on purpose to cause harm in American cities.

PERF’s concern is that AI can make drones easier to use for bad purposes, even for people without special skills. For example, AI can help a drone fly on its own through a busy city, avoid obstacles, and potentially track a person or a vehicle. AI can also help analyze video from the air, like an automated security guard that never gets tired.

PERF also points to the risk of multiple drones working together as a group, sometimes called a swarm (like a flock of birds that moves as one). A group of low-cost drones could be harder for police to stop than a single drone.

The report highlights that illegal drone activity is already common. In New York City, authorities are seeing about 23,000 illicit drone flights per month, according to the New York Times summary. PERF also notes cases of unauthorized drones entering football stadiums during games.

What to watch

PERF says new federal rules are starting to give state and local agencies clearer legal authority to detect and respond to dangerous drones, including through the 2025 SAFER SKIES Act. The next question is how quickly cities can build the training, staffing, and rules needed to use those powers safely, and before a major incident forces rushed decisions.

Source: NYTimes