Uncanny Valley | WIRED How Americans Are Surveilled During Protests
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Apr 17, 2025 Andrew Couts, Senior Editor of Security and Investigations at WIRED and an expert on surveillance technology, dives into the intricate web of surveillance during protests. He discusses how law enforcement utilizes advanced tech to monitor demonstrators, the implications for civil liberties, and the evolution of protest-related surveillance tactics over the years. Couts also shares crucial tips for protecting personal privacy and safety while engaging in protests, highlighting the urgency of awareness in a rapidly changing digital landscape.
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Surveillance Threats to Protesters
- Digital surveillance is a constant threat to protesters as smartphones continuously collect and transmit data.
- The conflation of protesters with criminals heightens risks due to misleading perceptions by authorities.
Phones Reveal Exact Locations
- Phones ping cell towers and apps frequently share precise locations, which can be accessed by law enforcement.
- Location data from devices can reveal where a person was at a specific time during a protest.
Protect Identity While Protesting
- Wear masks and remove identifiable features to limit being recognized in protest videos shared online.
- Avoid posting your own protest activity on social media if concerned about personal safety or legal consequences.