Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming surveillance capabilities across the United States, with systems like automatic license plate readers becoming widespread in cities and towns nationwide. These AI-powered tools capture vehicle data, images, and timestamps, storing them in massive, searchable databases that can be integrated with law enforcement systems. What once served as a limited crime-fighting tool has evolved into a sophisticated network capable of tracking movement patterns, identifying individuals, and monitoring activity in real time.

The expansion of these systems raises serious concerns about privacy and oversight. With little national legislation meaningfully restricting how this data is collected, stored, or used, the potential for abuse grows significantly. These technologies are not only being used for criminal investigations but are increasingly tied to broader monitoring efforts, including tracking protests and specific communities. Private companies supplying this infrastructure often operate with minimal transparency, creating a complex web of surveillance that extends far beyond traditional policing.

SOURCE: LiveScience