US, Canada Develop Advanced Biometric Surveillance Systems

Surveillance in the United States has expanded far beyond traditional methods, with new technologies capable of detecting biological data like heartbeats and breathing without direct observation, as demonstrated by initiatives from the US Department of Homeland Security and Canadian firms. Mobile phones have become ubiquitous tracking devices, enabling constant location monitoring of individuals, including children, which reflects a broader societal shift where everyone is both surveiller and surveilled. This pervasive surveillance is supported by advanced digital and cellular tracking techniques, far surpassing earlier wiretapping methods, and is further facilitated by legal and technological changes under President Donald Trump's administration and the John Roberts Supreme Court. Public opinion is divided but leans toward acceptance of government surveillance for security reasons, especially regarding suspected terrorists, though concerns persist about potential misuse to target political opponents or suppress dissent. Republicans generally show more support than Democrats for monitoring various groups, including politicians, journalists, and international students, while most Americans agree surveillance is more acceptable when tied to criminal investigations. Meanwhile, discussions about espionage and digital surveillance extend into Canada, highlighting ongoing concerns about civil rights and privacy in the digital age.