📣 U.S. Government Uses YouTube Videos to Track Suspects
posted 23 Mar 2024
Law enforcement repeatedly demanded that Google provide detailed information about viewers of specific YouTube videos. The requests sought addresses, phone numbers, IP addresses, and other private details of users.
In one disclosed case, U.S. law enforcement approached the search giant as part of an investigation into a user suspected of selling BTC for cash. Undercover agents shared educational videos on augmented reality and using drones for mapping with the suspect, aiming to then gather personal data on those who viewed the videos.
In another instance, police responded to a bomb threat reported over the phone. Although no bomb was found, it was discovered that they were being monitored through street webcams and a series of streams on YouTube.
The court ordered Google to fulfill the government's requests, yet it's uncertain if the data was indeed disclosed. The company spokesperson mentioned that they meticulously examine each request and frequently deny such demands.
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