LAPD officers told to collect social media data on every civilian they stop (theguardian.com)

Article summary

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has been collecting social media information from civilians they stop, including those not arrested or accused of a crime. This practice has raised concerns about civil liberties and potential mass surveillance. The LAPD has been using 'field interview cards' to record civilians' social media accounts, alongside basic biographical information. The department's social media surveillance has also been criticized for potentially targeting activist groups, including Black Lives Matter.

Main themes

• police surveillance
• civil liberties
• social media monitoring
• mass surveillance
• police accountability
• activist groups

What commenters say

• Refusing to provide social media information to the police is a legitimate exercise of one's rights, and individuals should be aware of their right to remain silent.
• The police can use coercive tactics to obtain information, and refusing to comply can lead to further pressure and potential arrest.
• Individuals should never volunteer information to the police and should instead assert their rights and remain silent.
• The LAPD's collection of social media information is a form of mass surveillance that disproportionately targets marginalized communities.
• The police have no legal authority to demand social media information from individuals, and any request for such information is voluntary.
• Exercising one's rights and refusing to comply with police requests can be an effective way to hold the police accountable and prevent abuse of power.
• The LAPD's social media surveillance is part of a broader pattern of police overreach and abuse of power, particularly against activist groups and communities of color.