People Staring at Computers (kylemcdonald.net)

Article summary

The article discusses a 2011 incident where the author, an artist, installed a timelapse application on Apple Store computers to take photos of people using them, which led to a visit from the Secret Service. The author reflects on the experience and how their views on surveillance and law enforcement have changed over time. The incident was sparked by Apple contacting the Secret Service after discovering the application. The author was not charged due to a decision by the Assistant United States Attorney.

Main themes

• surveillance
• artistic expression
• privacy
• law enforcement
• corporate influence
• ethics of hacking
• public space

What commenters say

• The author's actions were unethical and potentially illegal, and they were lucky to have avoided charges.
• The project highlights issues of surveillance and privacy in public spaces.
• The involvement of the Secret Service was an overreaction and an example of corporate influence on law enforcement.
• The author's intentions as an artist do not justify their actions, which could be seen as a form of hacking or cybercrime.
• The incident raises questions about the balance between artistic expression and individual privacy.
• The fact that the author was not charged does not necessarily mean their actions were justified or legal.
• The case illustrates the different treatment of individuals and corporations by law enforcement.
• The author's reflections on the experience demonstrate a growing awareness of the complexities of surveillance and law enforcement.