Security and Surveillance

In the wake of the 9/11 terrorists attacks, laws and policies were adopted that unnecessarily weakened privacy rights and other constitutional liberties. The government initiated data mining programs, expanded electronic surveillance, and launched new identification efforts without adequate safeguards and often without sufficient consideration as to whether the programs were even effective.

CDT established the Project on Freedom, Security, & Technology on the premise that both national security and individual rights can be protected through balanced laws and policies. The Project works to restore checks and balances that were eliminated by statute and executive fiat.  In addition, it promotes an affirmative agenda to respond to changes in technology with updated civil liberties protections.