The surveillance state is a growing concern in the United States. Law enforcement agencies are increasingly using technology to track and monitor people’s movements and activities. This raises serious privacy concerns, as well as the potential for abuse of power.
A new project called the Atlas of Surveillance is working to map the extent of surveillance in the United States. The project is a collaboration between the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) and the University of Nevada, Reno.
The Atlas of Surveillance collects data on the types of surveillance technology that law enforcement agencies are using, as well as where they are using it. The data is then displayed on an interactive map.
The Atlas of Surveillance is a valuable tool for understanding the extent of surveillance in the United States. It can help people to make informed decisions about their privacy, and to hold law enforcement accountable for their use of surveillance technology.
Here are some of the key findings from the Atlas of Surveillance:
- Law enforcement agencies are using a wide range of surveillance technology, including facial recognition, license plate readers, and body-worn cameras.
- The use of surveillance technology is increasing rapidly. In the past five years, the number of law enforcement agencies using facial recognition has increased by 1,500%.
- Surveillance technology is being used in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
- The use of surveillance technology is disproportionately targeted at communities of color.
The Atlas of Surveillance is a sobering reminder of the growing surveillance state in the United States. It is important to be aware of the ways in which our privacy is being eroded, and to take steps to protect ourselves.
Here are some tips for protecting your privacy from surveillance:
- Be aware of the types of surveillance technology that are being used.
- Be careful about what information you share online.
- Use strong passwords and encryption.
- Be critical of the information you see in the media.
- Get involved in your community and hold your elected officials accountable.
The surveillance state is a threat to our privacy and our democracy. We must work together to protect our rights and freedoms.