Hidden cameras are monitoring drivers nationwide for ‘suspicious’ travel patterns. They’re extremely hard to spot
Surveillance system of hidden cameras tracks millions of drivers nationwide
- The U.S. Border Patrol operates a secretive nationwide surveillance program, monitoring millions of drivers by scanning vehicle license plates.
- An algorithm flags “suspicious” travel patterns, leading federal agents to alert local law enforcement, who then stop and aggressively question drivers for minor traffic infringements.
- Initially designed to combat illegal border activities, the program has expanded significantly over the past decade, now reaching far into the country's interior, beyond traditional border zones.
- The Border Patrol collaborates with other agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Administration and private companies, and uses federal grants to fund local law enforcement's participation, expanding its surveillance network.
- Critics argue this mass surveillance raises constitutional concerns regarding privacy and freedom of movement, with examples showing innocent drivers being subjected to stops and searches without finding contraband.