“With its capacity for precise zooming at short distances, aerial surveillance can, in combination with other automated identification technologies, allow for effortless cataloguing of individuals and their activities.” POGO (The Project On Government Oversight)
About: Drone surveillance is the use of unpiloted or unpiloted aerial vehicles (UAV) to capture images and video to gather information about specific targets, which might be individuals, groups or environments. There are hundreds of different types of drones. They can be as large as commercial aircraft or as small as a housefly, and include human remotely guided aircraft as well as autonomous, self-guided vehicles.
How do they work? Drones can be operated by individuals and private companies. They may be fitted with high resolution thermal imaging cameras, or even with Facial Recognition Technology and audio equipment. Individuals can operate the drones using remote controls or through smartphones.
Why is this wrong? Our privacy is violated by unwanted flying guests that can record movement and capture images at any time, without our knowledge or permission. Drone Surveillance has a strong chilling effect on populations. It is well researched that people who are being observed tend to behave differently than when they are not being watched.
Drone technology can be used in a classed and racialised way to spy on particular populations, and to monitor political organisers.
More info at:
POGO (Project On Government Oversight) | These Police Drones are Watching You
ACLU | Protecting Privacy From Aerial Surveillance: Recommendations for Government Use of Drone Aircraft