Online surveillance tools allow investigators to observe the activities of people in real-time. They can include cameras microphones, GPS trackers and biometric scanners like fingerprint and Iris scanners. They can also include software that spies on computer activity, such as a keylogger.
The use of these tools has grave legal implications. They can violate human rights and should be subject to clear legal frameworks that ensure privacy. These frameworks should define the legal online data room basis for their use and define the necessary authorization procedures, which include the judicial oversight. They should also stipulate limits on data collection and retention.
Lack of transparency when using these tools can be a concern as it can encourage users to self-censor themselves because of fear of being viewed. Additionally, the wide use of monitoring social media sites to detect threats without a semblance of separation from suspicion of a crime can result in a flood of irrelevant information that can crowd out information on — and sources for — actual public safety concerns.
These tools could be of great help to law enforcement agencies in the context of investigation however, they must be subjected to clear legal frameworks that guarantee human rights. The laws should define the rationales for their use, establish the required authorization procedures and set limits on data collection and storage. The tools should be subject to judicial supervision, as an independent judicial review can help to prevent misuse of surveillance technology. Regular reporting and disclosure will also assist in building trust and promoting public debate on the proper size and limitations of these tools.