Criminal use of drones and possible lines of defence

Abstract

The use of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) with criminal intent falls within the scope of activities that are intended to achieve illegal or objectionable ends and may endanger human life, public order, or national security. The criminal use of drones, as unmanned aerial vehicles are commonly known, raises a number of dangers and ethical issues that have become increasingly pressing with the development of modern technology. Although drones were originally designed for military and industrial purposes, the proliferation of easily accessible and cheap models has opened up new opportunities for criminals. The experience of innovation in recent years – in the battlefield – also shows that the development of capabilities such as advanced weapon systems, drones, and other strike-measuring devices has accelerated significantly. Today, unmanned systems are used across the full spectrum of communications, reconnaissance, strike measurement, and support. Our aim is to raise awareness of the problem posed by these devices and to highlight possible ways and means of defence.