From smart phones to the “internet of things,” technology plays a critical role in our lives. At John Jay, our students are improving the safety of computer networks, understanding how social networks impact our day to day lives, and developing new ways to use smart technology in our everyday lives. 

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Alenny Almonte 

Balancing Security and Privacy: The Impact of Facial Recognition Technology (Dr. Douglas Salane) 

I’ve always been interested in the intersection of technology and ethics, which led me to explore Facial Recognition Technology (FRT). Through my research, I’ve learned how technological advancements can enhance security but also raise serious privacy concerns. This experience has strengthened my passion for computer science and its real-world applications. My goal is to develop responsible tech solutions that balance innovation with ethical considerations. Being part of PRISM has provided me with invaluable research experience and mentorship to guide my academic and career journey. 

My research explores how FRT improves security while raising ethical and privacy concerns. We are examining its role in law enforcement and identity verification, addressing risks like bias and surveillance. My goal is to find a balance that ensures FRT is used responsibly and fairly. 

Brian De Los Santos 

Low-Cost Autonomous AI for Enhancing Small Business Cybersecurity (Dr. Jennifer Holst)

As a child, my curiosity for technology was sparked by video games, which led me to explore how computers and software function. High school computer classes deepened my interest, and competing on a cyber team in college solidified my passion for cybersecurity. Research has taught me perseverance—there are no shortcuts in science. PRISM has helped shape my research skills, preparing me for a career in ethical hacking with a focus on website security. I’ve enjoyed the challenge of getting AI to work seamlessly and seeing my research come to life in real-time.

Our goal is to create a system that can automatically defend small businesses from cybersecurity threats, while reducing the heavy cost to users. My research focuses on using artificial intelligence to develop an autonomous system that detects and neutralizes incoming threats without any outside help.