Criminals, Terrorists and Maybe the Rest of Us -- Watch Out
I saw two items that gave me pause. I'm going to be neutral on this because, quite frankly, I'm more concerned with what you think, and this is sensitive stuff. Say too much and I'm sure to offend someone. So just the facts this time, ma'am.
First up, Microsoft has finished working on a system for New York City that combines massive video surveillance with an equally massive database. The idea is to see anyone in the city, watch exactly what they are doing in real-tine and match them to what is already known about them. The system, according to press statements, is aimed at terrorists and suspected criminals.
The second item is more interesting. Apparently Homeland Security has a new laser that, pretty soon, will be able to shoot beams at us and find out most everything -- whether we have drugs, weapons, if we're nervous, even what we ate in the Red Carpet Club. All this from 50 yards away. And even though this is aimed at airports, what's to keep this out of the hands of regular old law enforcement?
The author who brought me this info had a point of view and used the article as a platform to promote a new app that can secretly record one's interactions with the police.
The point here is that sometimes in some places police officers believe being recorded is illegal and have arrested those doing the recording.
You can see how divisive these topics can be. But because the technology is moving so fast (who doesn't have a camera phone?), we may want to tackle some public policy now before we reach the point of no return.
Posted by Doug Barney on 08/10/2012 at 1:19 PM