Crime prediction technology could be a problem

Argentina is one step closer to using artificial intelligence (AI) as a powerful ally in the fight against crime. A recent announcement by the country’s security forces revealed plans to implement this technology to try to predict crimes. However, the idea has sparked an important debate about the implications for citizens’ rights.

Far-right President Javier Milei has unveiled the creation of the Artificial Intelligence Unit Applied to Security, which will use machine learning algorithms to analyze historical crime data and predict future criminal activity.

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The AI ​​Technology Behind Crime Prevention

The new unit aims to use advanced algorithms to examine patterns of past crimes and predict future activity.

Additionally, AI technology will use facial recognition software to identify wanted individuals, monitor social media, and analyze real-time security camera footage to detect suspicious activity.

The government revealed that these measures will help identify potential threats, monitor movements of criminal groups and anticipate possible disturbances.

Human Rights Concerns

Although the idea may sound interesting in theory, we need to look a little further and understand what this type of surveillance could have on citizens as a whole.

Therefore, despite the government’s stated intentions, human rights organizations and experts have expressed serious concerns about the use of mass surveillance technologies.

Amnesty International, for example, has warned that such practices could infringe on human rights, especially freedom of expression. Mariela Belski, executive director of Amnesty International Argentina, said that mass surveillance could lead people to self-censor, fearing that their communications will be monitored by security forces.

Furthermore, the Center for the Study of Freedom of Expression and Access to Information has warned that these technologies have historically been used to monitor academics, journalists, politicians and activists. Without adequate oversight, there is a high risk that citizens’ privacy will be threatened, further increasing discrimination and unfair surveillance of vulnerable groups.

Political and historical context

Javier Milei’s government, characterized by a hard-line approach to crime, is being questioned for its increasingly militarized security policies. Security Minister Patricia Bullrich has brought forward controversial security models, such as El Salvador’s prison system.

This aggressive approach is also present in the government’s response to protests, where police forces have used tear gas and rubber bullets against demonstrators.

These concerns are especially acute there, as the country has a history marked by brutal state repression. During the 1976-83 military dictatorship, approximately 30,000 people disappeared, many of whom were tortured or murdered.

This dark past still resonates strongly in Argentine society, where the memory of state abuses continues to influence public perception of new surveillance measures.

Future implications of the new AI security policy

The implementation of the Artificial Intelligence Unit Applied to Security in Argentina raises important questions about responsibility and ethics in the use of technology for public security.

While the technology has the potential to improve the effectiveness of security operations, it also raises concerns about privacy, freedom of expression and the possibility of abuse by law enforcement.

To ensure the new unit operates within legal boundaries and respects citizens’ rights, the government has said it will operate under the current legislative framework, including the Personal Information Protection Act. However, transparency and ongoing oversight will be essential to mitigate risks and ensure the technology is used fairly.

Fonte: The Guardian