Post by Bertie on Nov 14, 2013 0:50:37 GMT -8
A Channel 10 Special Report
The Seattle Police Department has a "mesh network" capable of tracking wireless devices throughout the city. The mesh network, purchased last February was intended to be used to better coordinate emergency services in response to wide scale disasters or terrorist attack. According to the Seattle Police, the device has not yet been turned on.
Critics worry that the device can be put towards more nefarious ends. Once operational the mesh network will be able to determine device information such as IP address, device type, downloaded applications, as well as current and past locations of any electronic device that searches for local WiFi.
City council members assured reporters that before the mesh network is activated, there will be a complete set of guidelines for its use, and that the public will be informed every step of the way. "The network will be a valuable tool to coordinate responses to other chaotic situations. The need for such infrastructure was clearly demonstrated by the Boston Marathon bombings earlier this year."
Privacy advocates remain concerned, and suggest that there is some evidence that at least part of the mesh network is already operational throughout the city of Seattle, with mysterious new wireless networks showing up throughout the city.
The Seattle Police Department has a "mesh network" capable of tracking wireless devices throughout the city. The mesh network, purchased last February was intended to be used to better coordinate emergency services in response to wide scale disasters or terrorist attack. According to the Seattle Police, the device has not yet been turned on.
Critics worry that the device can be put towards more nefarious ends. Once operational the mesh network will be able to determine device information such as IP address, device type, downloaded applications, as well as current and past locations of any electronic device that searches for local WiFi.
City council members assured reporters that before the mesh network is activated, there will be a complete set of guidelines for its use, and that the public will be informed every step of the way. "The network will be a valuable tool to coordinate responses to other chaotic situations. The need for such infrastructure was clearly demonstrated by the Boston Marathon bombings earlier this year."
Privacy advocates remain concerned, and suggest that there is some evidence that at least part of the mesh network is already operational throughout the city of Seattle, with mysterious new wireless networks showing up throughout the city.