Biohacking-experimentation on DNA and other aspects of genetics by “hobbyists” is increasing as pertinent technology and data become more accessible and as online support groups facilitate sharing of information and knowledge. Over the next 5 years as biohacking capabilities spread, the techniques and tactics needed to employ DNA-based steganography (concealing of messages within messages) are likely to spread as well. Although we have no evidence to suggest adversaries currently are experimenting with this technology, DIA assesses with high confidence that as biohackers develop the knowledge to exploit this technique, state or nonstate actors will endeavor to use DNA-based steganography to circumvent existing intelligence collection capabilities.
Document Archive
Biohacking: A Potential Covert Communication Method – 18 September 2009 [5 Pages, 0.7MB]
