Counterterrorism: The right to privacy and surveillance operations



Counterterrorism: The right to privacy and surveillance operations

Introduction

The increasing terrorism in the recent decade has significantly impacted the laws and regulations of the United States. After the attacks of September 11, there are many conflicts that arose due to the conflicting situations between the values of security and privacy of civilians in the country. The unexpected threat produced by the terrorism has leaded the people to rely on the government regarding the national and personal security of the people of United States. The demand and requirement of new systems have been seen in the country that could combat with the increasing threats of terrorism across the country. This phenomenon leads to the global war on terror in which many people have lost their lives. The operations to convict the terrorists have achieved some degree of success through the happenings of drone attacks in the areas where the presence of terrorist is suspected. However, the war on terror has produced a mass massacre of people around the world and the number of actual terrorists being assassinated cannot be determined. The operations are still in process to provide national security to the people of United States. For this reason, the aid of technology has also been taken into account that has provided significant contribution in the operations against the terrorists. This paper discusses the concept of counter terrorism in context of the rights of people to have privacy and security through surveillance operations in United States (Harmon et al., 2011).

Counterterrorism

The efforts of counterterrorism includes that a state reduces the risk of terrorism that is caused by international or external groups so that the people of the state can carry out their routine activities without any fear. It provides confidence to the people and gives them a chance to live freely in the country. For this reason, the state formulates short term and long terms strategies to combat with the terrorism. The home offices in several countries hold the responsibility of preventing the people from the threats of the terrorism prevalent around them. The people also hold responsibility against the actions of counter terrorism that needs to be communicated to the governments and home offices so that they can take actions accordingly. Some of the responsibilities of people arise when they see something suspicious or doubtful and they need to address it to the home office (Schimd, 2011). The reporting of suspicious activity might help the counterterrorism process and provide security and safety to the people of the country. If there is a threat identified then the people must report it to the concerned authorities that might include calling the police and contacting the security service. There are several websites where the report can be posted regarding the extremism and terrorist web content. The people can remain anonymous that helps keeping their privacy and provides security to them. The home office for the counter terrorism and security devises and formulates strategies for combating the terrorism ...