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What if a kill switch fails?

If a robot's kill switch fails, it could continue operating dangerously, potentially causing harm or damage. This highlights a critical safety concern in robotics, especially for autonomous systems. The Cologne incident, where a robot allegedly harassed a girl, underscores the need for reliable safety mechanisms and clear protocols for intervention when things go wrong.

Stories that explain this

Robot seized after girl, 16, harassed outside Cologne restaurant

Questions this opens up

Who monitors robot safety? Can robots be hacked? What if a robot turns violent?

Related explainers

What are robot 'kill switches'? How common are public robots? What crime did the robot commit? What if the robot is autonomous? Who pays for robot damage? Who regulates robot safety? Who is responsible for robot actions? Can a robot commit a crime?

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