Researchers at La Sapienza University of Rome have developed a new system called WhoFi that can track individuals by analysing their movement using Wi-Fi signals. Interestingly, WhoFi doesn’t rely on cameras, microphones, or the person carrying any device. Instead, it detects changes in wireless signals caused by people’s size, shape, and movement. Notably, the technology is currently in research labs and is not available commercially, and there are no further details on its deployment.
Here’s how it works and all other details we know.
Wi-Fi signals travel through spaces and interact with objects, including people, by bouncing off or being absorbed. Everyone’s body alters these signals in a distinct way. WhoFi measures subtle changes in signal characteristics such as amplitude and phase by using a neural network.
To train the system, researchers used the NTU-Fi dataset, a benchmark in Wi-Fi sensing technology. In the research, WhoFi showed an impressive accuracy of up to 95.5% in identifying the same person as they moved between rooms or different locations.
Unlike cameras or microphones, Wi-Fi sensing does not capture images or audio. However, the technology still raises concerns about covert tracking and surveillance, without a person’s knowledge or consent.
Though the research team emphasises that WhoFi does not collect biometric data directly, they warned that without strict guidelines, the technology could be misused for secret monitoring in homes, workplaces, or public spaces.
Also read: Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold launch date, design, specs, price range and everything else we know
WhoFi is not yet commercially available; however, with Wi-Fi networks becoming more widespread, it could be deployed in security systems that verify authorised users without cameras. The system will also be useful for health monitoring that tracks movement patterns, or smart environments that adapt to the presence of specific individuals.