Summary
The U.S. Border Patrol is using cameras and license plate readers to monitor millions of American drivers. This program extends beyond border regions and raises concerns about privacy and civil liberties. The program uses technology to flag vehicles with certain travel patterns and involves cooperation with local law enforcement.
Key Facts
- The U.S. Border Patrol monitors drivers with cameras and license plate readers.
- This surveillance extends far beyond border areas into major U.S. cities.
- An algorithm identifies "suspicious" travel patterns to alert for vehicle stops.
- The program collects data from both government and private sources.
- Some cameras are hidden on highways, disguised as regular equipment.
- Privacy advocates warn this could infringe on Americans' rights.
- The program has a large budget of over $2.7 billion for advanced technologies.
- Few details about this program are disclosed in court records.