An Analysis of Cell Phone Technology, Security, and Individual Rights

An Analysis of Cell Phone Technology, Security, and Individual Rights

In this technology driven era, I question what effect cell phones are having on our lives as American citizens? To investigate this, I read two articles. The first reading was “Mobile Phone Tracking Scrutinized” by Nikki Swartz originally published in the Information Management Journal for March/April 2006, and the second reading was “Reach out and Track Someone” by Terry J. Allen, originally published by In These Times on May 15, 2006. In her article, Swartz questions the legality of using a cell phone’s GPS system as a tracking device in situations when crimes are involved. She argues the potential violation of Fourth Amendment rights and describes loopholes our government avoids when the data is as a surveillance device. In her article, “Reach Out and Track Someone”, Allen shows the conspiracy theorist’s view of cell phone data tracking use. She suggests the government uses of warrantless wiretapping, and argues the communications companies and government have been involved in questionable activities (p1). Swartz and Allen question the government’s practices using cell phone data; Swartz sees the issue as practical is some cases, where Allen sees an overt violation of privacy. Both of the articles brought up two important questions. How do we define our expectation of privacy, and when does the government’s need take precedence, and even violate an individual’s expectation of privacy?

Swartz and Allen both agree the government’s use of cell pone surveillance is questionable, however they disagree on where the line should be drawn. For example, Swartz’s view is objective when prosecutors make the argument that having access to such crucial data is imp...

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...w, after both readings, I do.

Swartz and Allen both offer valuable perspectives on expectation of privacy and legal limitation of cell phone data tracking use. As consumers of technology, Americans use cells phone not always by choice, sometimes by necessity. Both authors advise us to question our stand on the government’s unwarranted involvement in our lives. I would encourage us all to be aware of all technology around us. Albeit convenient, we must be willing to accept our part in its use.

Works Cited

Works Cited

Swartz, Nikki. "Mobile Phone Tracking Scrutinized." Findarticles.com Mar 2006: n. pag. Web. 4 Aug 2010. .

Allen, Terry. "Reach Out and Track Someone." In These Times 15 May 2006: n. pag. Web. 4 A ug 2010. .>.