BreachMob: Detecting vulnerabilities in physical environments using virtual reality

Abstract

BreachMob is a virtual reality (VR) tool that applies open design principles from information security to physical buildings and structures. BreachMob uses a detailed 3D digital model of a property owner’s building. The model is then published as a virtual environment (VE), complete with all applicable security measures and released to the public to test the building’s security and find any potential vulnerabilities by completing specified objectives. Our paper contributes a new method of applying VR to crowd source detection of physical environment vulnerabilities. We detail the technical realization of two BreachMob prototypes (a home and an airport) reflecting on static and dynamic vulnerabilities. Our design critique suggests that BreachMob promotes user immersion by allowing participants the freedom to behave in ways that align with the experience of breaching physical security protocols.