The Deployment of Autonomous Drones During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Drones are being utilised in diverse domains all over the world. The latest employment is the utilisation of drones during the global pandemic for crowd dispersal, infection monitoring, facial recognition, and logistical roles. Drones with artificial intelligence are unique devices that enhance the economy and are capable of completing tasks that humans cannot. The issue is that companies have disregarded the security of these machines, making them vulnerable to cyberattacks. Furthermore, a compromised drone can be used as a malicious offensive weapon system for tasks such as illegal imagery, videography, and as a functioning autonomous weapon system. This paper critically analyses the amalgamation of drones and artificial intelligence, reviews the current threat landscape, and studies drone vulnerabilities in regard to attack methods. Finally, a robust framework with secure countermeasures is proposed and therefore recommended for the drone industry to adopt and implement.