Pirouz Naghavi

Title: Pirouz Naghavi: Innovator in Acoustic Eavesdropping Technology

Introduction

Pirouz Naghavi is an inventive mind based in Gainesville, FL (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of acoustic eavesdropping technology, particularly through his innovative patent that utilizes smartphone cameras for this purpose. His work highlights the intersection of technology and security, showcasing how everyday devices can inadvertently leak sensitive information.

Latest Patents

Naghavi holds a patent for "Acoustic eavesdropping using a smartphone camera." This patent reveals how rolling shutter and movable lens structures in smartphone cameras can modulate structure-borne sounds onto camera images. This creates a point-of-view optical-acoustic side channel for acoustic eavesdropping. The movement of smartphone camera hardware can leak acoustic information, as images unwittingly modulate ambient sound into imperceptible distortions. Experiments have shown that this side channel is amplified by the intrinsic behaviors of complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) rolling shutters and movable lenses, such as those found in optical image stabilization (OIS) and auto focus (AF). This disclosure characterizes the limits of acoustic information leakage caused by structure-borne sound that perturbs the point-of-view of smartphone cameras. Unlike traditional optical-acoustic eavesdropping methods, this side channel does not require a line of sight or an object within the camera's field of view.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Naghavi has worked with prestigious institutions, including the University of Michigan and the University of Florida Research Foundation, Incorporated. His experience in these organizations has allowed him to develop and refine his innovative ideas in the realm of technology and security.

Collaborations

Naghavi has collaborated with notable individuals in his field, including Yan Long and Kevin Fu. These partnerships have contributed to the advancement of his research and the successful development of his patent.

Conclusion

Pirouz Naghavi's work in acoustic eavesdropping technology exemplifies the innovative spirit of modern inventors. His patent not only sheds light on the vulnerabilities of smartphone cameras but also opens up discussions on privacy and security in the digital age.