Online surveillance tools are employed by intelligence and law enforcement agencies to track, monitor and examine digital activity. These include online security software and cameras on hardware that connect to a server in order to store and manage information. Surveillance systems help investigators trace a person’s whereabouts, pinpoint their physical characteristics, and recognize any suspicious behavior. They can also be used to identify possible threats to the security of data.
Governments should ensure that the design, procurement and operation of surveillance technologies is informed by respect of human rights and privacy principles, including the protection of bodily autonomy, avoiding undue interference with personal freedoms, and minimizing the collection and retention of information. This means setting clear boundaries on the amount of data collected, and ensuring that the technology is only used only when it is needed and proportionate to accomplish legitimate objectives in a given context, and providing access to legal advice for individuals concerned about their use.
While authorities might argue that these tools are needed to stop terrorist activity Human rights groups believe the widespread use of these technologies could lead to misuse of discretion and power of police officers. Several US agencies have reportedly used surveillance software, for example facial recognition and social media mining to screen citizens and tourists in public areas or to monitor activists and protesters.
BrickHouse Security carries many different counter surveillance tools that are designed to safeguard privacy and prevent unwanted monitoring. They range from portable detectors that can scan an area for hidden cameras in just a few seconds to white noise masking devices to prevent recording devices from picking up sounds.