Title: Cyber Torture and the Use of Electromagnetic Frequencies (EMF) and Radio Frequencies (RF) in Targeted Attacks: Implications for Human Rights Introduction The increasing digitization of our daily lives has expanded the realm of potential human rights abuses into the cyber domain. One of the emerging concerns is the use of Electromagnetic Frequencies (EMF) and Radio Frequencies (RF) to carry out targeted attacks, including manipulation of infrastructure such as smart meters. These attacks, often described as "cyber torture," target individuals with harmful frequency emissions, which can result in physical, psychological, and emotional harm. This paper addresses the urgency of considering these forms of attack within the context of human rights and provides recommendations for the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) to address the issue. Definition and Scope of Cyber Torture Cyber torture refers to the use of digital technologies and cyber tools to inflict psychological, physical, or emotional pain on individuals. Unlike traditional forms of torture, cyber torture leverages modern technology to harm individuals remotely, often using electromagnetic and radio frequency emissions that can cause severe physical and psychological stress. These technologies include: Electromagnetic Frequencies (EMF): Emissions that occur naturally or can be artificially created by modern electronic devices such as cell towers, routers, or manipulated smart meters. Radio Frequencies (RF): A form of electromagnetic energy used in communications technologies, which can be manipulated to target specific individuals, leading to discomfort or harm. The manipulation of these frequencies, particularly through infrastructure like smart meters, opens up new avenues for human rights violations by enabling remote and continuous harassment of individuals. Smart Meters: A New Frontier in Cyber Torture Smart meters, often installed by utility companies for monitoring electricity usage, have become a target for manipulation in cyber torture. These devices emit low-level EMF and RF frequencies, and when improperly used or manipulated, they can be weaponized to harm individuals. Targeted Individuals (TIs) often report experiencing symptoms such as headaches, sleep disturbances, anxiety, and severe stress when they are exposed to manipulated EMF/RF emissions from smart meters. Concerns arise when smart meters are hacked or remotely controlled, allowing perpetrators to alter the frequency, duration, and intensity of emitted waves. This is particularly concerning in the context of vulnerable individuals who might already be experiencing psychological distress, exacerbating their conditions and leading to long-term health impacts. Human Rights Implications The use of EMF and RF as a form of cyber torture constitutes a violation of several fundamental human rights, including: 1. Right to Physical and Mental Integrity: Prolonged exposure to harmful frequencies without consent violates the individual’s right to health and bodily integrity, as outlined in Article 3 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. 2. Right to Privacy: Targeted attacks using smart meters or other technology often involve surveillance and intrusion into the individual's private life, contravening Article 12 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. 3. Freedom from Torture and Cruel Treatment: The deliberate infliction of harm through technological means constitutes a form of cruel and inhuman treatment, which is prohibited under the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CAT). 4. Right to Remedy: Victims of cyber torture often face difficulties in seeking legal redress due to the covert nature of these attacks and the lack of adequate legal frameworks to address them. Targeted Individuals (TIs): A Vulnerable Group Targeted individuals represent a population particularly affected by cyber torture, reporting systematic harassment, surveillance, and manipulation of EMF and RF emissions in their daily lives. Many of these individuals experience social isolation, depression, and anxiety due to the persistent nature of these attacks. The mental health impacts are significant and can be as debilitating as the physical effects, highlighting the need for international attention to the phenomenon. The UN Special Rapporteur on Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman, or Degrading Treatment has begun addressing forms of cyber torture, yet more research is needed to fully understand the implications of EMF and RF-based attacks. The lack of tangible evidence makes it difficult for these victims to be recognized, creating barriers to justice. Recommendations for the UN Human Rights Council Given the emerging nature of this issue and its potential for widespread human rights abuses, the UNHRC must take immediate steps to address cyber torture involving EMF and RF frequencies: 1. Recognition of Cyber Torture in International Law: The UNHRC should expand the current definition of torture to explicitly include cyber forms of torture, especially those involving EMF and RF frequencies. 2. Research and Monitoring: Establish independent bodies to research the impacts of manipulated EMF and RF emissions on human health and develop standards for safe frequency usage. These bodies should also monitor reports of cyber torture involving smart meters and other digital infrastructure. 3. Technological Safeguards: The UN should urge member states to enforce stringent regulations on the installation and maintenance of smart meters and other EMF/RF-emitting devices. Safeguards should be put in place to prevent unauthorized access or manipulation of these devices. 4. Support for Victims: States should provide psychological, medical, and legal assistance to victims of cyber torture. This includes recognizing targeted individuals as victims of human rights abuses and providing them with avenues for redress. 5. International Cooperation: Given the cross-border nature of cyber technologies, there should be international cooperation among states to prevent and penalize the manipulation of frequencies for the purpose of harm. International protocols on cyber warfare and digital safety should address EMF and RF frequency manipulations as part of their framework. Conclusion Cyber torture, particularly through the manipulation of EMF and RF frequencies, represents a significant and growing threat to human rights. As digital technology becomes more integrated into society, the potential for abuse through these means increases. The UNHRC must take the lead in addressing this issue by developing comprehensive international legal frameworks, supporting victims, and promoting research into the impacts of these technologies. The rights to health, security, and freedom from torture must be protected in the digital age.