The Golden Age of Surveillance

We’re living in the Golden Age of Surveillance. We are always sharing information about what we’re doing, what we’re thinking through the utilisation of multiple devices.

Surveillance has shifted to the palm of the individual, where spyware can be utilised to remotely access other smart devices. Anywhere, anytime.

The digital spyware industry is growing rapidly, where anything can be looked into, from anything you type, the calls you make, Apps that you utilise, to the extent of getting your voice and data.

The recent debate between Apple and the FBI is a clear indication of the next hurdle in the debate about freedom of speech, privacy and the right to privacy. Closer to home, we were recently made aware of the acquisition of a Grabber, a device that can monitor and listen to up to 10,000 cell-phone conversations at a time. More frightening is the easy access to spyware and other intrusive technologies – go ahead, try it.

The acceleration in surveillance and monitoring activities across the world, especially by those in authority, is constantly shadowed by other technological developments. There’s a positive correlation between the roll-out of fibre and mobile apps and the increase in surveillance and related activities. Imagine your typical day 5-10 years from now.

Will you be able to bank if you do not own a smart device? Will you be able to utilise public transport without a smart device? The world is rapidly moving to a state where the unconnected will not be able to partake in the mainstream economy. For example, if you cannot bank you pretty much cannot do much else.

Leap forward another 10 years and smart devices will be replaced by smart machines that will make decisions regarding many aspects of your life.

Are you ready for that? Logging out is becoming increasingly difficult as each day sees us becoming more plugged in.