http://www.cnn.com/video/?hpt=hp_t3#/video/tech/2012/02/16/nr-dhs-social-media.cnn
I came across this video and wanted to hear people's opinion about it. It seems like Homeland Security would argue that the practice of monitoring social media postings shouldn't be considered an invasion of privacy since it's only viewing what people post publicly. However, I have a feeling that some people would be disagree with such a claim. The video also mentions that the intention of this practice is to uncover the what's of certain events rather than the who's associated with them, but is this really the case? Another question is whether or not this practice merits its $11 million price tag at a time when the country is looking for ways to cut spending.
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Does DHS really think that terrorists will post an iota of evidence regarding their potential or future activity? This does nothing but instil more fear into the minds of Americans and aid terrorists in their mission of keeping us constantly looking over our shoulders. In regard to the Constitutional issue of whether this will be an invasion of privacy, I don't think there would be such an invasion. As you've stated, Kira, the information being posted is public and individuals who post do not have a "reasonable expectation" of privacy of such material if their privacy settings are set to allow this company to see the information, or if this company "friends" these individuals and has access to their information (See Katz v. United States, 389 U.S. 347 (1967) (Harlan, J. concurring)).
ReplyDeleteActually, I think this is a great idea, though I understand the initial hesitancy. The DHS is utilizing public information for a good purpose. All of the information was willingingly posted for the world to see. I would feel different if they were hacking into people's accounts, but this is completely different. When someone posts something on Twitter or Facebook, it is the same as if they would say it outloud in a public space. It should only be common sense if someone hypothetically says "I am going to unleash my laser gun, explosives, and rabid pot-bellied pig on Obama at his next rally," the correct action could be taken against them. It is also great that the DHS can take people's complaints, such as the airport lines, and turn that information into action. As for fear, I think there is nothing to fear as long as people have common sense. If you don't want something known keep it to yourself. While there still are questions, I think the positive outweighs the negative in this case.
ReplyDeleteYou're assuming that such a person that wants to "unleash [his] laser gun, explosives, and rabid pot-bellied pig on Obama at his next rally" would ACTUALLY post such a thing on social media. I think the odd's weigh against that actually happening. So, I don't think I think it's a waste.
ReplyDeletePerhaps I was not clear on my thought regarding the public's "fear." DHS' attempt at scouring social media sites in and of itself perpetuates fear, just like TSA's procedures at airports (procedures which, by the way, have been noted to not necessarily make air travel any safer). I don't think people will be concerned that DHS will be hacking into accounts; you're right - if you don't DHS to identify you as a threat, then don't be stupid; use "common sense." But to create a program on the premise that terrorists will actually post their plans, in any manner, on-line, is somewhat nonsensical, and simply helps terrorist organizations in keeping the West constantly on its toes, and afraid.
I realize it is, indeed, unlikely that a terrorist would share plans on a social networking site. However, I think it would be a terrible shame if a real threat would surface, and in retrospect it is one we would have been able to prevent. I think vigilance, even in the most frivolous places such as social networking sites, is only prudent in the world in which we live.
ReplyDeleteWatching or seeking citizens' comments on face book and twitter is one of the way of our advantages because safety is important to us. The government could use the information from the media sources to increase safety for citizens. They might change the way to organize themselves. However,we have a right to privacy. I believe the privacy is also important.
ReplyDeleteAfter seeing the video my initial thoughts were in agreement with Abhay. I cannot believe that anyone would post terrorist activity on a social media site. And if DHS thinks that they are going to find this type of stuff on facebook, etc. then they are are wrong in my opinion. On the other hand, if DHS is also looking to address problems in air ports and what not from social media postings, then I think that the $11 million dollars may be justified.
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