Are We Ready to Investigate Robots? Issues and Challenges Involved in Robotic Forensics

In the rapidly progressing era of robotics, their integration into daily lives is becoming ordinary. As beneficial as this integration is, the potential for misuse has raised alarms in the forensic community. The study delves into the complexity of forensic investigating incidents involving robots. Unlike traditional systems, robots possess both software and hardware components that are interconnected with their functionality, creating several challenges for forensic examination. From identifying various robot types to handling proprietary systems, the investigator’s task is daunting. Extracting and interpreting log data from robots present its hurdles, highlighted by a lack of specialized forensic tools tailored for robotic systems. Furthermore, the complex AI algorithms that drive many robots add another layer of complexity to a forensic investigator’s role. The paper also highlights jurisdictional challenges and emphasizes the pressing need for clear guidelines, policies, and Standard Operating Procedures (S.O.P.s) adapted to robotic forensics. A real-world case scenario in the paper offers a deep dive into the challenges faced during an actual robotic-related crime investigation. In essence, as society marches into a future dominated by robots, this research underscores the need not only for tools and methodologies to investigate them but also for robust design principles to ensure their secure operation.