Edward Snowden, with Andrew Huang, a fellow security expert, developed a device that detects and blocks surveillance signals. This device is called the "introspection engine".
During his remote presentation in MIT, the computer expert discussed how people can be tracked using their mobile phones. He explained that while phones are turned on, it sends signals that can be traced to know the user's movements.
He explained that these signals can be monitored by the phone company, the government or an unknown third party. The information that the signals create can be used improperly.
The engine runs on an open source software but is still in the prototype phase. The phone will use a signal that is independent from the phone's processor. Unwanted wireless and Bluetooth connections can also be traced.
Its design is a modified case that can fit an iPhone. The screen on the case will show if there are radio transmitters present in the area.
Journalists will be able to maximize this device, more often than the ordinary user. Journalists now can release sensitive information without being traced.
Many journalists who are in conflict-prone areas can use this engine even if they are in the middle of gunfire. They do not need to relocate for fear of reprisal.
Snowden was a former contractor of the U.S. government and leaked classified information from the National Security Agency (NSA) in 2013. He revealed that many telecommunication companies and European governments were involved in wiretapping.
He leaked his information to journalists and newspapers such as the "New York Times", "The Guardian", and "Der Speigel". The ex-CIA employee then received international attention.
He was charged by the U.S. Department of Justice with espionage in 2013. He flew to Russia, where he was given a 3 year asylum.
