As technology for traffic management improves we see the deployment of more traffic monitoring cameras in cities. They use to track traffic flow, to spot violations like speeders and runners at red lights, and also to assist in accident investigation. While these techs can improve overall safety and reduce traffic issues, also they bring up issues of public space surveillance. What is the line between what is too much surveillance of the individual, and at which point do we cross into invasion of privacy?
Technology’s Role in Traffic Surveillance
Traffic today uses a large array of tech for tracking and monitoring of vehicles. We see in practice the use of traffic monitoring cameras, automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) systems, and sensor based tech. What they do is collect great sets of data which in turn improve traffic flow and reduce congestion. For example we have traffic cameras and sensors put out on the main roads which report back on vehicle speed, they can spot a jam before it happens and study flow patterns. That data is used by traffic control centers to adjust light timings and reroute traffic as needed, which in turn prevents accidents and reduces delay.
These also are issues which see the collection of great amounts of info and which parties have access to it. We see the trend of constant monitoring which includes that of vehicles and individuals as a privacy issue. Use of the surveillance tools is very much a point of debate which plays out when that which is collected is used beyond the original scope of traffic management.
Security Benefits of Traffic Surveillance Systems
One of the best cases for traffic surveillance is that they improve public security. Also they do not just monitor traffic flow but are involved in crime prevention and investigation. With cameras at critical intersections or on major highways they may report vehicles which are used in criminal events like theft or assault at which point they record suspect action. Also traffic surveillance networks can help us find missing people out, recover stolen cars and in the investigation of accidents.
In areas with large numbers of accidents or of very carelessness in driving, we see that which is reported by surveillance to be a deterrent. That they are watched may cause drivers to better follow traffic laws, which in turn reduces that which causes accidents. Also in the case of an accident the video from traffic cameras is to determine fault which in turn quickens insurance claims.
Privacy Concerns and Ethical Issues
Despite the fact that traffic surveillance improves security it is still an issue of privacy which we see large scale. Use of traffic monitoring cameras and other surveillance tools puts out great amounts of personal info. We see individuals which may not know they are included in the data collection as they go about their routine from the commute to work to a public place. Also we have constant surveillance which in turn instills a feel of being watched which many find off putting.
One out of which is that what is collected may be used in a way which was not intended. We see that which from traffic surveillance systems put into the hands of third parties like marketing companies or even government agencies for use beyond that of traffic management. Also we are very much at risk of data breaches. If we do a poor job of securing the sensitive data which we collect that which may fall into the hands of unauthorized parties and we may see violations of privacy.
Also we see that which often traffic surveillance systems are put in to action without first consulting the public fully or being open about it. Citizens may not be aware of what the data is used for, which authorities have access to it, or how long it is to be stored. This lack of transparency which in turn breeds trust issues in the system and those that run it. Also we are seeing a trend toward more strict regulation of the collection, storage, and use of surveillance data to protect private information.