Remote Lie Detection Possible

Currently the only way to measure blood pressure is by using an inflatable pressure cuff or a surgically implanted monitor. The only way to measure sweat is through a cumbersome process that uses electrodes on a small portion of skin. The new method can do both remotely and constantly.

While cautious about the new research, James Wolff, a doctor at Emerson Hospital in Concord, Mass. who was not associated with the study, said "this could open up a whole new area of research."

Because it has never been possible to remotely monitor sweat, pulse and blood pressure, no one has thought about what the the technique could be used for, said Wolff.

The device could also be used as a remote lie detector. A person could be subjected to lie detection without their knowledge or consent.

When a person lies, it triggers physiological responses: faster pulse, higher blood pressure and increased sweating. A polygraph machine measures these responses, but it has to be physically attached to a person.

Trained professionals can evade polygraphs, but if a person doesn't know they are being constantly tested the new method could be more effective.

Jonathan Marks, a professor of bioethics at Pennsylvania State University, says that lie detection using this method would still have problems with accuracy. A person already anxious over something else when they are being scanned could trigger a false positive.

"There are concerns about people's privacy," said Marks. "Is there a justification for screening people en masse for physiological data?

"Where would you do this?"

Related Links:

Eric Bland's blog: What the Tech

How Stuff Works: Lie Detectors