Deploying deep neural network (DNN) models at the edge enables real-time inference while enhancing data privacy. However, the intellectual property (IP) of these devices faces significant risks from malicious end-users. Traditional IP protection techniques often incur high costs and rely on specialized hardware. In this paper, we present NetVault, a novel and lightweight framework designed to proactively secure the IP of DNNs. Specifically, NetVault sabotages the inference accuracy by selectively altering the model’s weights in critical layers before the device enters an unprotected offline stage and encodes these weights’ locations. We leverage an embedded AES accelerator to fast encrypt the weight locations and original values of the weights and use the RSA mechanism to secure the encryption key to ensure that the compromised model is rendered ineffective for unauthorized users. Performance evaluations on typical embedded devices demonstrate that NetVault introduces negligible energy and time overhead. Extensive tests across various neural network architectures and datasets further validate the efficacy and practicality of NetVault as a robust IP protection solution.

As Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to integrate into more aspects of society, equipping younger generations with foundational AI knowledge becomes increasingly critical. This paper presents Word2Vec4Kids (W2V4K), an interactive application designed to familiarize middle school students with word embeddings, a key aspect of Natural Language Processing (NLP). W2V4K leverages the Word2Vec model, allowing students to explore word associations, similarity, and vector arithmetic through engaging game modes. The application was tested with 38 middle school students aged 11-14 at a Science Technology Engineering Math (STEM)-focused charter school. Data were collected on students' interactions with the application, including screen recordings, audio, and survey responses. Results demonstrated that W2V4K effectively introduces NLP concepts to students. Qualitative observations revealed high levels of engagement with students expressing excitement and curiosity about word relationships. As they progressed through the game modes, students showed increasing confidence in predicting word associations, brainstorming relevant words, and connecting the concepts to real-world applications. Quantitative data from post-interaction surveys indicated positive learning outcomes with 44.5% of students achieving perfect scores on concept-related items. Additionally, students demonstrated an ability to critically think about language representation. This study suggests that W2V4K provides an effective and engaging method for introducing NLP concepts to middle school students, contributing to the broader goal of enhancing AI literacy among younger generations.

We present JAttack, a framework that enables template-based testing for compilers. Using JAttack, a developer writes a template program that describes a set of programs to be generated and given as test inputs to a compiler. Such a framework enables developers to incorporate their domain knowledge on testing compilers, giving a basic program structure that allows for exploring complex programs that can trigger sophisticated compiler optimizations. A developer writes a template program in the host language (Java) that contains holes to be filled by JAttack. Each hole, written using a domain-specific language, constructs a node within an extended abstract syntax tree (eAST). An eAST node defines the search space for the hole, i.e., a set of expressions and values. JAttack generates programs by executing templates and filling each hole by randomly choosing expressions and values (available within the search space defined by the hole). Additionally, we introduce several optimizations to reduce JAttack’s generation cost. While JAttack could be used to test various compiler features, we demonstrate its capabilities in helping test just-in-time (JIT) Java compilers, whose optimizations occur at runtime after a sufficient number of executions. Using JAttack, we have found six critical bugs that were confirmed by Oracle developers. Four of them were previously unknown, including two unknown CVEs (Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures). JAttack shows the power of combining developers’ domain knowledge (via templates) with random testing to detect bugs in JIT compilers.