They probably haven't yet, but syndicates could hack anti-poaching technology, new research shows

The technology used in anti-poaching programmes is at risk of cyber attack, research by a Stellenbosch University (SU) student has suggested.

Masters student Christelle Steyn from the Orange Cyberdefense Academy reviewed the cyber security risks in anti-poaching systems in South Africa. She found that various technologies used in anti-poaching bring with them the risk of cyber attacks and must be well set up and securely authenticated for greater protection of information, anti-poaching units and animals.

Steyn, who is a Field Guides Association of Southern Africa (FGASA) certified guide, with a passion for wildlife conservation, used a network software emulator to simulate a hypothetical network of anti-poaching technologies that could be applied in the conservation of wildlife species such as rhinos, elephants, pangolins and lions.