Milei's government will monitor social media with AI to 'predict future crimes'

Javier Milei's administration in Argentina has established a new Artificial Intelligence Unit Applied to Security, which will monitor social media and other online platforms to predict and prevent crimes. This unit will also analyze real-time security camera footage and utilize drones for aerial surveillance. The initiative aims to enhance the efficiency of law enforcement by employing machine learning algorithms to analyze historical crime data and identify potential threats. The unit will be staffed by police and security agents and will focus on detecting criminal activities, identifying movements of criminal groups, and responding to emergencies.

However, experts and civil rights organizations have raised concerns about the implications of this surveillance program on privacy and civil liberties. Critics argue that the initiative contradicts constitutional rights and could lead to illegal intelligence operations disguised as technological advancements. They highlight the risks of inadequate oversight and the potential misuse of collected data, which could target academics, journalists, and activists. The Center for Studies on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information has noted that similar practices in Latin America often lack transparency and accountability. Additionally, the predictive capabilities of AI in crime prevention have been questioned, with experts warning against relying on technology that has historically failed in this area. Overall, the establishment of this unit has sparked a significant debate about the balance between security and individual rights in Argentina.