- In a recent investigation by Wired, a covert surveillance initiative overseen by the White House has come to light, providing law enforcement agencies with unparalleled access to trillions of American phone records. This revelation has sparked notable privacy and legal concerns.
- The program, identified as Data Analytical Services (DAS), operates in collaboration with telecommunications giant AT&T, facilitating extensive access to U.S. phone records for federal, state, and local law enforcement entities.
- DAS not only involves the scrutiny of direct phone contacts linked to criminal suspects but also extends its reach to encompass the social networks of these individuals. This broad surveillance practice raises significant apprehensions as it encompasses individuals who have not been implicated in any criminal activities.