Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs): Forensic, Privacy, and Security Challenges in the Era of Drone Proliferation

The proliferation of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, across recreational, commercial, and military domains has led to a corresponding increase in their exploitation for malicious purposes. This trend not only poses challenges to national security by encroaching upon citizens’ privacy and safety but also fundamentally alters the landscape of contemporary warfare. While drones were traditionally confined to military applications, their widespread adoption by the public is fuelled by their diverse functionalities and appealing features. Drones, available in various shapes and sizes, cater to a spectrum of uses across different sectors. Nonetheless, the allure of drones is accompanied by inherent challenges and vulnerabilities, rendering them susceptible to exploitation by malicious actors. This chapter aims to provide a critical analysis of forensic, privacy, and security concerns, alongside an examination of existing legislation and regulations governing UAV usage and abuse. In light of these issues, recommendations will be proposed to address the evolving landscape of drone misuse. Additionally, an outlook on the future of drones will be presented, with a particular focus on the advancement of autonomy and the emergence of drone swarms, thereby elucidating their potential ramifications on the nature of future warfare.