The question of public surveillance systems has become a hot topic since September 11 terrorist attacks in the United States. The surveillance systems are believed to prevent any unwanted or fatal incidents and to ensure the public safety. Even though it creates uncertainty and doubt among the public's as it violates their privacy, it is still the best solution in providing safety to the people. Moreover, the surveillance systems will provide evidence and bring those who are responsible to the justice for appropriate punishment.
Most people agree on the usage of surveillance videos in public places, as long as the videos serves good and are not focusing on privacy needed places like fitting rooms and restroom. This is where the issue of privacy and confidentiality comes in. Information in the video has to be classified as private and confidential so that it doesn't fall into the hand of irresponsible people.
Retail stores, banks and other business premises install the surveillance cameras in the premises as part of alarm system. East Orange of New Jersey, once known as one of United States highest crimes places, has now using the technology called smart cameras to help combat crimes. These smart cameras are designed to identify two behaviors, which are normal and abnormal. The sensor on the smart cameras will recognize an abnormal behavior and alert it to a station officer in charge at that time. The officer will then view back the video to identify if it is a crime or not, who will then alarms the patrol car that is being nearby. This is how the crime rate being reduced in New Jersey as it will cut the response time of waiting for help when a crime has been committed.
Another good example of surveillance projects is the NSA's "Perfect Citizen" program which has been quite famous recently. The NSA's "Perfect Citizen" program is designed for computer networks which is being used in highly critical infrastructures site like nuclear power plant. It works by embedding sensors which will detect and alarm if there are any security breaches.
Public surveillance systems have its advantages and disadvantages. The relative parties need organize a proper discussion to produce the best solution in ensuring public safety.