Law enforcement in Jackson, Mississippi has launched a 45-day pilot program that allows officers to tap into private surveillance devices during criminal investigations (article available here). Recently, the city began a pilot program with two technology corporations to provide a platform for the police department to access private surveillance via Ring cameras.
Once a crime is reported, police will be able to "access cameras in the area" to examine elements such as potential escape routes or in order to track getaway vehicles by way of a "Real Time Crime Center" system. In September, a leaked FBI analysis bulletin highlighted how smart doorbells could also be turned against law enforcement, as live feeds could warn suspected criminals of police presence, alert them to incoming visits from such 'unwanted' visitors, and may show suspects where officers are -- a safety risk when it comes to property raids.
However, the pilot may prompt privacy concerns. As noted by the EFF, handing over control of live streams to law enforcement may not only allow the covert recording of a willing participant's comings-and-goings but neighbors, too. "The footage from your front door includes you coming and going from your house, your neighbors taking out the trash, and the dog walkers and delivery people who do their jobs in your street," the EFF says. "In Jackson, this footage can now be live-streamed directly onto a dozen monitors scrutinized by police around the clock. Even if you refuse to allow your footage to be used that way, your neighbor's camera pointed at your house may still be transmitted directly to the police."