The deceptive rebranding of surveillance technology
Social media platforms have increasingly rebranded surveillance technologies as safety features, but a new report argues this normalises harassment and non-consensual filming. The report, released by the Center for Digital Democracy, highlights how features like location tracking, facial recognition, and background recording are marketed as tools for user protection, yet often enable stalking, doxxing, and other forms of abuse.
How it works
Platforms such as Meta, TikTok, and Snapchat have introduced features like "Live Location" sharing, "Friend Check-Ins," and automatic story uploads that record surroundings without explicit consent. According to the report, these features are designed to keep users engaged and gather data, but they also create opportunities for harassment. For instance, a user might share their location publicly, allowing others to track their movements in real time.
Impact on vulnerable users
The report notes that women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and activists are disproportionately affected. "Non-consensual filming has become a tool for harassment, with perpetrators using everyday social media features to record and share intimate moments without permission," said Dr. Sarah Johnson, lead author of the report. The study found that 1 in 3 women have experienced some form of online surveillance or harassment through these features.
Normalising invasive practices
By framing surveillance as "safety," platforms desensitise users to privacy invasions. The report calls for clearer consent mechanisms and stricter regulations. "When a feature is labelled 'safety,' users are less likely to question its implications," Johnson added. The report recommends that platforms default to opt-in settings and provide transparent data usage policies.
Regulatory gaps
Current laws lag behind, with few jurisdictions addressing the specific harms of non-consensual filming. The report urges governments to update privacy laws to include digital surveillance and require explicit consent for recording and sharing. "We need a cultural shift in how we view surveillance tech," Johnson concluded.
