Law enforcement and intelligence agencies use surveillance tools that are online to keep track of, record, and analyze digital activity. They include software applications for online security as well as camera equipment that is connected to a server to store and manage information. Surveillance systems are able to assist investigators track a person’s whereabouts, pinpoint their physical characteristics, and identify any suspicious behavior. They can be used to identify potential threats to the security of information.
Governments should ensure that the design, procurement and operation of surveillance technologies are guided by respect of human rights and privacy principles, including the protection of bodily autonomy, avoiding undue interference with individual freedoms and minimizing the collection and retention of data. This means establishing clear limitations on the information that is collected and ensuring that these technologies are only employed when it is needed and appropriate to achieve legitimate goals within a particular context, and providing legal guidance to those who are concerned about its use.
Human rights groups believe that the widespread use of these technologies can make police officers abuse their discretion and power. Several US agencies have reportedly employed surveillance software, like facial recognition and social media mining to monitor people and travelers in public areas, or to monitor activists and protesters.
BrickHouse Security carries many different counter surveillance tools that are designed to safeguard privacy and avoid unwanted surveillance. These range from portable detection devices that can sweep an area for hidden cameras in a matter of seconds to white noise masking devices that stop recording devices from picking up the sounds.
