Online surveillance tools are employed by intelligence and law enforcement agencies to record, monitor and analyze digital activity. They include software applications for online security and camera equipment that is connected to a server to store and manage data. Surveillance systems help investigators trace a person’s whereabouts, pinpoint their physical characteristics, and detect any suspicious behavior. They can be used to detect potential hacking and theft of sensitive data.
Governments should ensure that the development, procurement, operation and use of surveillance technologies are guided by respect for human rights and privacy principles, including the protection of bodily autonomy, avoiding undue interference with individual freedoms and minimising the collection and retention of data. This includes establishing clear limits on the information that is collected, ensuring such technology is only used when necessary and appropriate to meet legitimate goals within a particular context, and offering legal guidance to those who are concerned about its use.
While authorities may argue that these tools are required to combat terrorist activities, human rights organizations believe the widespread use of these technologies can result in the abuse of discretion and power by police officers. Many US agencies have reportedly used surveillance software, like facial recognition and social media mining, to screen citizens and tourists in public areas, or to monitor protesters and activists.
BrickHouse Security carries many different counter surveillance devices designed to protect one’s privacy and avoid unwanted surveillance. They range from portable detectors that can search an area for hidden cameras in a matter of seconds to white noise masking devices that prevent recording devices from picking up sounds.