Surveillance and privacy: Walking the tightrope

In a time of technological innovation and globalised communities, the issue of surveillance and its effects on personal privacy has gained more significance. It is critical to consider if we can achieve a delicate balance between the protection of our fundamental right to privacy and surveillance measures as we navigate the complex web of modern life.

Once thought to be limited to state security and law enforcement, surveillance has expanded to encompass many facets of our lives. The reach of surveillance has grown dramatically, with social media sites gathering personal information about our tastes and smart devices monitoring our every step. If surveillance technologies continue to proliferate without restraint, they may eventually create a society in which every move is watched, restricting individual liberty and choice.

Supporters argue that keeping an eye on everything is necessary to keep everyone secure, stop crime, and react quickly to new threats. Surveillance has shown to be an effective strategy in protecting communities in a linked world with a variety of threats, including pandemics and terrorism. Law enforcement organisations can detect possible threats and take preventative action by utilising sophisticated analytics in conjunction with real-time monitoring of public areas.

But the authorities must strike a balance between protecting personal information and maintaining group security. Legislation must keep pace with technological advancements to ensure that people's rights are upheld in the face of growing surveillance capabilities. A concerted effort is needed to build a society that respects human liberty and dignity.

Indrani Dhali

Student

North South University

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