AI tools amplify the threat of mass surveillance. By dramatically reducing the time and labor required to process massive amounts of personal data, AI increases the ability of governments and corporations to collect and act on invasive surveillance. Face recognition in all of its forms, including face scanning and real-time tracking, poses threats to civil liberties and individual privacy. EFF supports bans on government use of face recognition, and meaningful restrictions on use by private companies. We have raised concerns about police use of generative AI technology to turn body-worn camera recordings into reports without meaningful oversight or controls. 

We also oppose government use of AI and automated tools to conduct viewpoint-based surveillance and analysis of social media because it chills free speech. EFF also investigates and opposes the proliferation of AI-powered technology in immigration enforcement and at the US-Mexico border. Our guide Tackling Arbitrary Digital Surveillance in the Americas, compiles privacy, data protection, and access to information guarantees established within the Inter-American Human Rights System to provide concrete, actionable guidance to governments on limiting digital surveillance abuses.

Surveillance without accountability won't make us safer.