Intelligent Reflecting Surface-Enabled Anti-Detection for Secure Sensing and Communications

The ever-increasing reliance on wireless communication and sensing has led to growing concerns over the vulnerability of sensitive information to unauthorized detection and interception. Traditional anti-detection methods are often inadequate, struggling with limited adaptability and diminished effectiveness against advanced detection technologies. To overcome these challenges, this article presents intelligent reflecting surface (IRS) technology as a groundbreaking tool for enabling flexible electromagnetic manipulation, which has the potential to revolutionize anti-detection in both electromagnetic stealth/spoofing (evading radar detection) and covert communication (facilitating secure information exchange). We explore the fundamental principles of IRS technology for anti-detection, highlight its advantages over traditional anti-detection techniques, and discuss the main design challenges for implementing IRS-based anti-detection systems. Through the examination of case studies and future research directions, we provide a comprehensive overview of the potential of IRS technology to serve as a formidable shield in the modern wireless landscape.