The use of surveillance technologies plays a crucial role in modern security, law enforcement, and public safety. Various tools, ranging from traditional CCTV cameras to advanced artificial intelligence-driven systems, are deployed to monitor public spaces, prevent crimes, and manage risks at large gatherings. While these technologies offer significant benefits, they also raise concerns about privacy, data security, and ethical implications.
This article presents an overview of key surveillance technologies, summarizing their functions, benefits, and associated concerns. These concepts are explored in-depth in the Surveillance Impact Report D2.1 from the GATHERINGS Project, which examines how surveillance practices operate in real-world settings and their effects on privacy, security, and social costs.
Facial recognition
Facial recognition technology is used to identify individuals by analyzing their facial features. It is widely used in security applications such as law enforcement, border control, and access management. However, concerns around its accuracy, particularly in identifying individuals of different ethnicities, and the potential for misuse, such as mass surveillance, have been raised.
Traditional CCTV cameras
Closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras are one of the most commonly used surveillance tools for public security. They provide continuous monitoring and are employed in crime prevention, crowd management, and post-incident investigations. While CCTV can help deter criminal activities, it also raises concerns regarding privacy and the “chilling effect” it can have on public behaviour.
Automatic number-plate recognition (ANPR)
ANPR technology enables the automatic reading and recognition of vehicle license plates, aiding in traffic management, crime detection, and security enforcement. It is used by law enforcement agencies to track stolen vehicles, enforce road laws, and monitor restricted areas. However, it also raises privacy concerns related to data storage and misuse.
Body-worn cameras
Body-worn cameras (BWCs) are primarily used by law enforcement personnel to record interactions with the public. They provide evidence in legal cases, enhance accountability, and serve as a deterrent against misconduct. However, challenges include the high cost of storage, concerns over selective recording, and debates about when and where they should be used.
Drones
Drones are increasingly used for surveillance in large public gatherings, disaster management, and security operations. Their ability to provide aerial views and real-time video feeds makes them useful for monitoring crowds, identifying potential security threats, and even delivering emergency supplies. However, their deployment raises concerns about airspace regulations, privacy violations, and potential misuse.
Listening devices & communication interception
Listening devices and communication interception technologies are employed in intelligence gathering, law enforcement, and national security operations. These technologies can detect threats, prevent criminal activities, and gather evidence. However, their use raises serious ethical and legal questions regarding surveillance, individual privacy, and potential government overreach.
Access control technologies
Access control technologies regulate entry to restricted areas using authentication methods such as key cards, biometrics, and digital passes. AI-powered systems enhance security by detecting unauthorized access attempts and ensuring efficient crowd management. While these technologies improve security, concerns about data privacy, potential hacking, and over-reliance on automation persist.
Surveillance and security technologies continue to evolve, balancing the need for public safety with ethical and legal considerations. Their deployment should be accompanied by clear regulations, transparency, and safeguards to protect individual rights.
Are you curious? Learn more by reading the document here: https://gatherings-project.eu/result/surveillance-impact-report/
Beatriz CorreiaProject Manager