Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons^™

Who's In And Who's Out?: What's Important In The Cyber World?, Tony M. Kelly

HON499 projects

The aim of this paper is to offer an introduction to the exploding field of cybersecurity by asking what are the most important concepts or topics that a new member of the field of cybersecurity should know. This paper explores this question from three perspectives: from the realm of business and how the cyber world is intertwined with modern commerce, including common weaknesses and recommendations, from the academic arena examining how cybersecurity is taught and how it should be taught in a classroom or laboratory environment, and lastly, from the author’s personal experience with the cyber world. Included information includes …

Perceptions Of Planned Versus Unplanned Malfunctions: A Human-Robot Interaction Scenario, Theresa T. Kessler, Keith R. Macarthur, Manuel Trujillo-Silva, Thomas Macgillivray, Chris Ripa, Peter A. Hancock

Keith Reid MacArthur

Towards Learning And Verifying Invariants Of Cyber-Physical Systems By Code Mutation, Yuqi Chen, Christopher M. Poskitt, Jun Sun

Research Collection School Of Computing and Information Systems

Cyber-physical systems (CPS), which integrate algorithmic control with physical processes, often consist of physically distributed components communicating over a network. A malfunctioning or compromised component in such a CPS can lead to costly consequences, especially in the context of public infrastructure. In this short paper, we argue for the importance of constructing invariants (or models) of the physical behaviour exhibited by CPS, motivated by their applications to the control, monitoring, and attestation of components. To achieve this despite the inherent complexity of CPS, we propose a new technique for learning invariants that combines machine learning with ideas from mutation testing. …

Towards Concolic Testing For Hybrid Systems, Pingfan Kong, Yi Li, Xiaohong Chen, Jun Sun, Meng Sun, Jingyi Wang

Research Collection School Of Computing and Information Systems

Hybrid systems exhibit both continuous and discrete behavior. Analyzing hybrid systems is known to be hard. Inspired by the idea of concolic testing (of programs), we investigate whether we can combine random sampling and symbolic execution in order to effectively verify hybrid systems. We identify a sufficient condition under which such a combination is more effective than random sampling. Furthermore, we analyze different strategies of combining random sampling and symbolic execution and propose an algorithm which allows us to dynamically switch between them so as to reduce the overall cost. Our method has been implemented as a web-based checker named …

Intrinsic Functions For Securing Cmos Computation: Variability, Modeling And Noise Sensitivity, Xiaolin Xu

Doctoral Dissertations

A basic premise behind modern secure computation is the demand for lightweight cryptographic primitives, like identifier or key generator. From a circuit perspective, the development of cryptographic modules has also been driven by the aggressive scalability of complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) technology. While advancing into nano-meter regime, one significant characteristic of today's CMOS design is the random nature of process variability, which limits the nominal circuit design. With the continuous scaling of CMOS technology, instead of mitigating the physical variability, leveraging such properties becomes a promising way. One of the famous products adhering to this double-edged sword philosophy is the Physically …

Rapid Deployment Indoor Localization Without Prior Human Participation, Han Xu, Zimu Zhou, Longfei Shangguan

Research Collection School Of Computing and Information Systems

In this work, we propose RAD, a RApid Deployment localization framework without human sampling. The basic idea of RAD is to automatically generate a fingerprint database through space partition, of which each cell is fingerprinted by its maximum influence APs. Based on this robust location indicator, fine-grained localization can be achieved by a discretized particle filter utilizing sensor data fusion. We devise techniques for CIVD-based field division, graph-based particle filter, EM-based individual character learning, and build a prototype that runs on commodity devices. Extensive experiments show that RAD provides a comparable performance to the state-of-the-art RSSbased methods while relieving it …

Formal Performance Guarantees For Behavior-Based Localization Missions, Damian Lyons, Ron Arkin, Shu Jiang, Matt O'Brien, Feng Tang, Peng Tang

Faculty Publications

Abstract— Localization and mapping algorithms can allow a robot to navigate well in an unknown environment. However, whether such algorithms enhance any specific robot mission is currently a matter for empirical validation. In this paper we apply our MissionLab/VIPARS mission design and verification approach to an autonomous robot mission that uses probabilistic localization software.

Two approaches to modeling probabilistic localization for verification are presented: a high-level approach, and a sample-based approach which allows run-time code to be embedded in verification. Verification and experimental validation results are presented for two different missions, each using each method, demonstrating the accuracy …

Designing Minimal Effective Normative Systems With The Help Of Lightweight Formal Methods, Jianye Hao, Eunsuk Kang, Jun Sun, Daniel Jackson

Research Collection School Of Computing and Information Systems

Normative systems are an important approach to achieving effective coordination among (often an arbitrary number of) agents in multiagent systems. A normative system should be effective in ensuring the satisfaction of a desirable system property, and minimal (i.e., not containing norms that unnecessarily over-constrain the behaviors of agents). Designing or even automatically synthesizing minimal effective normative systems is highly non-trivial. Previous attempts on synthesizing such systems through simulations often fail to generate normative systems which are both minimal and effective. In this work, we propose a framework that facilitates designing of minimal effective normative systems using lightweight formal methods. Given …

Summarization Of Egocentric Videos: A Comprehensive Survey, Ana Garcia Del Molino, Cheston Tan, Joo-Hwee Lim, Ah-Hwee Tan

Research Collection School Of Computing and Information Systems

The introduction of wearable video cameras (e.g., GoPro) in the consumer market has promoted video life-logging, motivating users to generate large amounts of video data. This increasing flow of first-person video has led to a growing need for automatic video summarization adapted to the characteristics and applications of egocentric video. With this paper, we provide the first comprehensive survey of the techniques used specifically to summarize egocentric videos. We present a framework for first-person view summarization and compare the segmentation methods and selection algorithms used by the related work in the literature. Next, we describe the existing egocentric video datasets …

Histogram Of Oriented Phase (Hop): A New Descriptor Based On Phase Congruency, Hussin Ragb, Vijayan K. Asari

Vijayan K. Asari

In this paper we present a low level image descriptor called Histogram of Oriented Phase based on phase congruency concept and the Principal Component Analysis (PCA). Since the phase of the signal conveys more information regarding signal structure than the magnitude, the proposed descriptor can precisely identify and localize image features over the gradient based techniques, especially in the regions affected by illumination changes. The proposed features can be formed by extracting the phase congruency information for each pixel in the image with respect to its neighborhood. Histograms of the phase congruency values of the local regions in the image …

A Modular Approach For Key-Frame Selection In Wide Area Surveillance Video Analysis, Almabrok Essa, Paheding Sidike, Vijayan K. Asari

Vijayan K. Asari

This paper presents an efficient preprocessing algorithm for big data analysis. Our proposed key-frame selection method utilizes the statistical differences among subsequent frames to automatically select only the frames that contain the desired contextual information and discard the rest of the insignificant frames.

We anticipate that such key frame selection technique will have significant impact on wide area surveillance applications such as automatic object detection and recognition in aerial imagery. Three real-world datasets are used for evaluation and testing and the observed results are encouraging.

Designing Laboratories For Small Scale Digital Device Forensics, Richard P. Mislan, Tim Wedge

Annual ADFSL Conference on Digital Forensics, Security and Law

The ubiquity of small scale digital devices (SSDD), the public’s ever increasing societal dependence on SSDD, and the continual presence of SSDD at all types of crime scenes, including non-technical and violent crimes, demand a formalized curriculum for the education and training of future cyber forensic examiners. This paper presents the various SSDD forensics labs currently in use and under development for future use at the Purdue University Cyber Forensics Laboratory. The primary objective of each module is to provide specific real-world cases for the learning, comprehension, and understanding of hands-on investigative techniques and methodologies. The purpose of this paper …

Network Forensic Investigation Of Internal Misuse/Crime In Saudi Arabia: A Hacking Case, Abdulrazaq Al-Murjan, Konstantinos Xynos

Annual ADFSL Conference on Digital Forensics, Security and Law

There are ad-hoc guidelines and a limited policy on computer incident response that does not include computer forensic preparation procedures (e.g. logging incidents). In addition, these guidelines do not consider the requirement of Islamic law for admissible evidence at an organisational level in Saudi Arabia. Network forensic investigation might breach the Saudi law if they follow ad-hoc or international digital forensic standards such as Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) guidelines. This might put the organisation in a costly situation when a malicious employee sues an Islamic court. This is because the law of Saudi Arabia is complying with Islamic …

Paper Session Ii: Computer Forensics Field Triage Process Model, Marcus K. Rogers, James Goldman, Rick Mislan, Timothy Wedge, Steve Debrota

Annual ADFSL Conference on Digital Forensics, Security and Law

With the proliferation of digital based evidence, the need for the timely identification, analysis and interpretation of digital evidence is becoming more crucial. In many investigations critical information is required while at the scene or within a short period of time - measured in hours as opposed to days. The traditional cyber forensics approach of seizing a system(s)/media, transporting it to the lab, making a forensic image(s), and then searching the entire system for potential evidence, is no longer appropriate in some circumstances. In cases such as child abductions, pedophiles, missing or exploited persons, time is of the essence. In …

Recognizing And Combating Cybercrime, Marcia L. Dority Baker

Information Technology Services: Publications

Can You Spot the Scam?

Scams make great stories. Tales of Internet crime or other fraud make up some of Hollywood's most exciting thrillers. While cybercrime blockbusters are fun to watch on the big screen, cybercrime is a serious problem on campuses globally.

How many people do you know who are the victim of a scam (Internet or phone)? According to the FBI, cybercrime is a growing threat that affects individuals and businesses around the world. A recent Washington Post article reported that cybercrime cost the global economy $445 billion in 2014.

Development Of A National Repository Of Digital Forensic Intelligence, Mark Weiser, David P. Biros, Greg Mosier

Annual ADFSL Conference on Digital Forensics, Security and Law

Many people do all of their banking online, we and our children communicate with peers through computer systems, and there are many jobs that require near continuous interaction with computer systems. Criminals, however, are also “connected”, and our online interaction provides them a conduit into our information like never before. Our credit card numbers and other fiscal information are at risk, our children's personal information is exposed to the world, and our professional reputations are on the line.

The discipline of Digital Forensics in law enforcement agencies around the nation and world has grown to match the increased risk and …

Designing A Data Warehouse For Cyber Crimes, Il-Yeol Song, John D. Maguire, Ki Jung Lee, Namyoun Choi, Xiaohua Hu, Peter Chen

Annual ADFSL Conference on Digital Forensics, Security and Law

One of the greatest challenges facing modern society is the rising tide of cyber crimes. These crimes, since they rarely fit the model of conventional crimes, are difficult to investigate, hard to analyze, and difficult to prosecute. Collecting data in a unified framework is a mandatory step that will assist the investigator in sorting through the mountains of data. In this paper, we explore designing a dimensional model for a data warehouse that can be used in analyzing cyber crime data. We also present some interesting queries and the types of cyber crime analyses that can be performed based on …

Towards A Development Of A Mobile Application Security Invasiveness Index, Sam Espana

KSU Proceedings on Cybersecurity Education, Research and Practice

The economic impact of Mobile IP, the standard that allows IP sessions to be maintained even when switching between different cellular towers or networks, has been staggering in terms of both scale and acceleration (Doherty, 2016). As voice communications transition to all-digital, all-IP networks such as 4G, there will be an increase in risk due to vulnerabilities, malware, and hacks that exist for PC-based systems and applications (Harwood, 2011). According to Gostev (2006), in June, 2004, a well-known Spanish virus collector known as VirusBuster, emailed the first known mobile phone virus to Kaspersky Lab, Moscow. Targeting the Symbian OS, the …

Repmatch: Robust Feature Matching And Pose For Reconstructing Modern Cities, Wen-Yan Lin, Siying Liu, Minh N. Do, Ping Tan, Jiangbo Lu

Research Collection School Of Computing and Information Systems

A perennial problem in recovering 3-D models from images is repeated structures common in modern cities. The problem can be traced to the feature matcher which needs to match less distinctive features (permitting wide-baselines and avoiding broken sequences), while simultaneously avoiding incorrect matching of ambiguous repeated features. To meet this need, we develop RepMatch, an epipolar guided (assumes predominately camera motion) feature matcher that accommodates both wide-baselines and repeated structures. RepMatch is based on using RANSAC to guide the training of match consistency curves for differentiating true and false matches. By considering the set of all nearest-neighbor matches, RepMatch can …

Table Of Contents

Journal of Digital Forensics, Security and Law

No abstract provided.

Special Issue On Cyberharassment Investigation: Advances And Trends, Joanne Bryce, Virginia N. L. Franqueira, Andrew Marrington

Journal of Digital Forensics, Security and Law

Empirical and anecdotal evidence indicates that cyberharassment is more prevalent as the use of social media becomes increasingly widespread, making geography and physical proximity irrelevant. Cyberharassment can take different forms (e.g., cyberbullying, cyberstalking, cybertrolling), and be motivated by the objectives of inflicting distress, exercising control, impersonation, and defamation. Little is currently known about the modus operandi of offenders and their psychological characteristics. Investigation of these behaviours is particularly challenging because it involves digital evidence distributed across the devices of both alleged offenders and victims, as well as online service providers, sometimes over an extended period of time. This special issue …

Differentiating Cyberbullies And Internet Trolls By Personality Characteristics And Self-Esteem, Lauren A. Zezulka, Kathryn C. Seigfried-Spellar

Journal of Digital Forensics, Security and Law

Cyberbullying and internet trolling are both forms of online aggression or cyberharassment; however, research has yet to assess the prevalence of these behaviors in relationship to one another. In addition, the current study was the first to investigate whether individual differences and self-esteem discerned between self-reported cyberbullies and/or internet trolls (i.e., Never engaged in either, Cyberbully-only, Troll-only, Both Cyberbully and Troll). Of 308 respondents solicited from Mechanical Turk, 70 engaged in cyberbullying behaviors, 20 engaged in only trolling behaviors, 129 self-reported both behaviors, and 89 self-reported neither behavior. Results yielded low self-esteem, low conscientiousness, and low internal moral values for …

The Impact Of Low Self-Control On Online Harassment: Interaction With Opportunity., Hyunin Baek, Michael M. Losavio, George E. Higgins

Journal of Digital Forensics, Security and Law

Developing Internet technology has increased the rates of youth online harassment. This study examines online harassment from adolescents with low self-control and the moderating effect of opportunity. The data used in this study were collected by the Korea Institute of Criminology in 2009. The total sample size was 1,091. The results indicated that low self-control, opportunity, and gender have a significant influence on online harassment. However, these results differed according to gender; for males, low self-control significantly impacted online harassment; for females, however, only low self-control significantly impacted online harassment. Furthermore, the interaction between low self-control and opportunity did not …

Toward Online Linguistic Surveillance Of Threatening Messages, Brian H. Spitzberg, Jean Mark Gawron

Journal of Digital Forensics, Security and Law

Threats are communicative acts, but it is not always obvious what they communicate or when they communicate imminent credible and serious risk. This paper proposes a research- and theory-based set of over 20 potential linguistic risk indicators that may discriminate credible from non-credible threats within online threat message corpora. Two prongs are proposed: (1) Using expert and layperson ratings to validate subjective scales in relation to annotated known risk messages, and (2) Using the resulting annotated corpora for automated machine learning with computational linguistic analyses to classify non-threats, false threats, and credible threats. Rating scales are proposed, existing threat corpora …

A Legal Examination Of Revenge Pornography And Cyber-Harassment, Thomas Lonardo, Tricia Martland, Doug White

Journal of Digital Forensics, Security and Law

This paper examines the current state of the statutes in the United States as they relate to cyber-harassment in the context of "revenge porn". Revenge porn refers to websites which cater to those wishing to exploit, harass, or otherwise antagonize their ex partners using pornographic images and videos which were obtained during their relationships. The paper provide examples and illustrations as well as a summary of current statute in the United States. The paper additionally explores some of the various legal remedies available to victims of revenge pornography.

Landmark Detection With Surprise Saliency Using Convolutional Neural Networks, Feng Tang, Damian Lyons, Daniel Leeds

Faculty Publications

Abstract—Landmarks can be used as reference to enable people or robots to localize themselves or to navigate in their environment. Automatic definition and extraction of appropriate landmarks from the environment has proven to be a challenging task when pre-defined landmarks are not present. We propose a novel computational model of automatic landmark detection from a single image without any pre-defined landmark database. The hypothesis is that if an object looks abnormal due to its atypical scene context (what we call surprise saliency), it then may be considered as a good landmark because it is unique and easy to spot by …

Investigating The Impact Of Unsupervised Feature-Extraction From Multi-Wavelength Image Data For Photometric Classification Of Stars, Galaxies And Qsos, Annika Lindh

Dissertations

This thesis reviews the current state of photometric classification in Astronomy and identifies two main gaps: a dependence on handcrafted rules, and a lack of interpretability in the more successful classifiers. To address this, Deep Learning and Computer Vision were used to create a more interpretable model, using unsupervised training to reduce human bias.

The main contribution is the investigation into the impact of using unsupervised feature-extraction from multi-wavelength image data for the classification task. The feature-extraction is achieved by implementing an unsupervised Deep Belief Network to extract lower-dimensionality features from the multi-wavelength image data captured by the Sloan Digital …

Creation Of Carbon Nanotube Based Biosensors Through Dielectrophoretic Assembly, Nilan S. Mani, Steve Kim, Kaushik Annam, Danielle Bane, Guru Subramanyam

Guru Subramanyam

Due to their excellent electrical, optical, and mechanical properties, nanosized single wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) have attracted significant attention as a transducing element in nano-bio sensor research. Controlled assembly, device fabrication, and bio-functionalization of the SWNTs are crucial in creating the sensors. In this study, working biosensor platforms were created using dielectrophoretic assembly of single wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) as a bridge between two gold electrodes. SWNTs in a commercial SDS surfactant solution were dispensed in the gap between the two gold electrodes, followed by applying an ac voltage across the two electrodes. The dielectrophoresis aligns the CNTs and forms …

Dna Based Electrolyte/Separator For Lithium Battery Application, Jitendra Kumar, Fahima Ouchen-Bouchendouka, Devin A. Smarra, Guru Subramanyam, James Grote

Guru Subramanyam

In this study, we demonstrated the use of DNA-CTMA (DC) in combination with PolyVinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) as a host matrix or separator for Lithium based electrolyte to form solid polymer/gel like electrolyte for potential application in Li-ion batteries.

The addition of DC provided a better thermal stability of the composite electrolyte as shown by the thermos-gravimetric analysis (TGA). The AC conductivity measurements suggest that the addition of DC to the gel electrolyte had no effect on the overall ionic conductivity of the composite. The obtained films are flexible with high mechanical stretch-ability as compared to the gel type electrolytes only.

Segmentation Of Pulmonary Nodules In Computed Tomography Using A Regression Neural Network Approach And Its Application To The Lung Image Database Consortium And Image Database Resource Initiative Dataset, Temesguen Messay, Russell C. Hardie, Timothy R. Tuinstra

Russell C. Hardie

We present new pulmonary nodule segmentation algorithms for computed tomography (CT). These include a fully-automated (FA) system, a semi-automated (SA) system, and a hybrid system. Like most traditional systems, the new FA system requires only a single user-supplied cue point. On the other hand, the SA system represents a new algorithm class requiring 8 user-supplied control points. This does increase the burden on the user, but we show that the resulting system is highly robust and can handle a variety of challenging cases. The proposed hybrid system starts with the FA system.

If improved segmentation results are needed, the SA …