Privacy
Coverage of the way technology is changing the kinds of data state and local government collects about citizens, how it uses that data and the ethical and security implications of that. Includes stories about police body cameras, facial recognition, artificial intelligence, medical data, surveillance, etc., as well as privacy policy nationwide.
Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office said the California Highway Patrol will stand up 480 surveillance cameras on Oakland streets and East Bay freeways to help identify vehicles associated with crimes. Privacy advocates have criticized the plan.
In Arkansas, Florida, Georgia and Utah, lawmakers this session are trying to balance digital privacy and children’s mental health issues as they seek to implement social media mandates.
There are currently 217 license plate cameras watching Fort Worth streets, and 20 more are set to be deployed soon, said Sgt. Jason Spencer, a public information officer with the police department.
Lawmakers are looking at data collection from minors, and how tech companies are using it. They’re also pushing for default privacy settings for social media users. Trade groups are opposed.
Survey data released by NASCIO reveals many state chief privacy officers feel confined by a lack of enforcement influence and dedicated funding. Additionally, fewer CPOs report having an established privacy program than two years ago.
Spurred by growing public concern over data privacy, some of which is supported by nonprofit research, Tutor.com and other ed-tech companies have come under the microscope by state and federal leaders.
The Alabama Genetic Privacy Data Act, now under consideration by legislators, would require DNA testing companies to get consent from consumers before sharing their genetic information. Currently, no such privacy guarantee exists in the state.
Pixevety's child privacy platform to help schools manage image galleries that contain students is compliant with strict European Union privacy laws that define personal data, accountability measures and security requirements.
On Friday, Gov. Ron DeSantis vetoed a ban on social media for kids under 16 and lawmakers introduced new legislation that would let 14- and 15-year-olds access social media with a parent’s consent. The ban would still apply to children 13 and under.
After lengthy contract talks, the city will keep the gunshot detection system in place through September. But critics say it disproportionately harms people of color and some attorneys argue it shouldn’t be used in court cases.
