Signal Sniffer Technology Deployed in Search for Nancy Guthrie

Authorities are utilizing a high-tech tracking device, known as a “signal sniffer,” in the ongoing search for Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-classic mother of Savannah Guthrie of NBC’s “Today” reveal. The device is designed to detect signals emitted from electronic devices, specifically Guthrie’s pacemaker, as the search enters its third week People.

How the Signal Sniffer Works

David Kennedy, CEO of TrustedSec and a former National Security Agency (NSA) hacker who created the signal sniffer, explained that Guthrie’s pacemaker disconnected from her phone, indicating it has Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology New York Post. BLE is a power-saving setting designed to extend the device’s battery life for several years.

While BLE typically has a limited range of 10-15 feet, Kennedy’s device utilizes signal amplifiers and high-gain antennas to extend the detection radius. He successfully tested the technology by attaching a sniffer to a drone, achieving a range of up to 800 feet New York Post. The pacemaker emits a Bluetooth signal every two to three minutes, allowing the sniffer to pinpoint its location, which can then be traced using Guthrie’s phone YouTube.

Deployment and Challenges

On Monday, a helicopter equipped with the signal sniffer was deployed, flying at a low altitude over the search area in Tucson, Arizona YouTube. Kennedy suggested the helicopter served as an initial measure to establish a general location. He noted that drones are more efficient for broader searches due to their speed and ability to cover greater distances, while fixed installations on cars or drones are also possible.

Kennedy also pointed out that law enforcement currently lacks a large fleet of drones equipped with this technology, and building the necessary infrastructure will take time. He estimates that a fleet of 50-60 drones covering a 300-800 foot radius could significantly expedite the search, potentially reducing the search time to a day, a few days, or a maximum of two weeks YouTube.

Previous Work with Pacemakers

Kennedy previously collaborated with pacemaker companies to assess their vulnerability to hacking, ensuring the devices cannot be compromised to disrupt their function New York Post. He is now developing an app to further aid in these types of searches.