How to safeguard our privacy rights

How to safeguard our privacy rights

In read the Nov. 26 editorial, “Crime-fighting tool needs safeguards,” which reported on local police departments’ use of controversial Automatic License Plate Recognition, with mixed feelings. Being of the younger generation, I’m used to a world that knows what I’m doing. From geotagging our tweets to spotting cameras in every corner, my generation has grown up in the eye of the lens.

However, I agree that the lack of regulation of both government and private use of ALPR technology is concerning. Unfortunately, I felt that article did not clearly identify ways to safeguard privacy rights. We, as concerned citizens, must call for specific, articulated change.

In order to protect our right to privacy, as well as utilize this amazing technology to heighten our public safety, six fundamental regulations must be placed on ALPR technology. First, ALPR technology used by law enforcement must be used for the sole purpose of identifying flagged plates and investigating criminal activity.

Second, all data of license plates not flagged by the ALPR must have a retention period of at most a week, with possible exceptions of plates tagged outside of government buildings (i.e. police stations, embassies, schools).

Third, law enforcement agencies should be prohibited from sharing ALPR data with nongovernment affiliated third parties.

Fourth, safeguards must be set up to protect the anonymity of those parked outside of certain gatherings — examples given in the article included “political rallies, controversial plays, (and) religious services.”

Fifth, any agency (private or public) that uses ALPR technology must be required to report its usage to the public annually.

Finally, citizens must be able to find out whether or not their plate data is contained in a law enforcement agency’s database. Though safeguarding our rights, we can capitalize on the benefits of ALPR technology.

Bailey Bystry

Glen Ellyn