Arrr mateys, them fancy gadgets may soon be turned into sneaky spy contraptions, ye better watch yer back!
2024-04-17
Arrr, mateys! The US Senate be aimin' to vote on a scurvy bill to extend the reach of the spy program. If it be passin', yer VPNs won't be worth a bucket o' bilge in protectin' yer privacy. Keep yer wits about ye, me hearties!
The US House of Representatives has reauthorized the controversial spying law, Section 702 of FISA, expanding its mandate and reach. The Senate is set to vote on the legislation, causing concern among commentators. The amendment known as the "Make Everyone A Spy" provision has attracted criticism for extending surveillance to US electronic communication service providers. The Reforming Intelligence and Securing America Act (RISAA) is set for a vote, threatening privacy for foreigners and Americans alike.Senator Ron Wyden opposes the bill, calling it "dangerous" and unnecessary. Section 702, established post-9/11, allows government eavesdropping on private communications, targeting foreign citizens but often including Americans. The RISAA bill aims to renew and expand surveillance, requiring any service provider to spy on communications. Critics argue this could deputize anyone with access to communication technology, turning them into agents for government surveillance.Opposition includes former President Trump and whistleblower Edward Snowden, urging the tech industry to resist. The impact on online privacy, both domestically and internationally, is concerning. The US's lack of recognition of foreign citizens' privacy rights raises fears of widespread surveillance. Privacy violations and invasive tracking are seen as likely consequences if the bill passes, contradicting efforts to protect privacy.