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Terms and Definitions

Key Concepts and Explanations for Clarity and Understanding

Drone-Enabled Intrusion

“Drone-enabled intrusion refers to the unauthorized use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to compromise the physical security, privacy, or network integrity of a targeted area or system. This type of breach is three-dimensional, allowing intruders to bypass traditional ground-based security, … to conduct surveillance, data collection, or, in some cases, facilitate cyberattacks on surrounding infrastructure.” (AI from Wilbur. (2023). Protecting critical infrastructure. ScienceDirect.https://www.sciencedirect.com).


“Equipped with advanced technologies such as high-resolution cameras and artificial intelligence, … drones operate with minimal human intervention. Drones can inadvertently or deliberately capture images and data of individuals in private settings without their knowledge or consent. Such intrusions can lead to a sense of surveillance and erode public trust in technology. The psychological impact, which may be referred to as “drone anxiety,” reflects the societal unease with pervasive surveillance capabilities,” Quadri, I. (2025, January 23). (Quadri, 2025. The impact of autonomous drones on privacy and security (Social Justice Policy Brief #171). U.S. Resist News. https://www.usresistnews.org).


“Drones paired with smartphones also facilitate harassment, stalking, surveillance and other forms of harm…consumer drones … in the hands of bad actors and criminals, … From flying drones in proximity to manned aircraft, using drones to transport contraband into prisons, and the weaponisation of drones in attempts to harass and harm ex-partners…requires perspectives …on domestic drone incidents and harms,” (Hooper and Jackman, 2024).


(Hooper, L., & Jackman, A. (2024, June 10). Domestic drone harms. Counsel Magazine. https://www.counselmagazine.co.uk).

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