China’s Surveillance Network: Analyzing the Tiananmen Square Surveillance

Analysis of surveillance footage captured in Tiananmen Square, Beijing, in November 2016, reveals a significant amount of data collection. The cameras documented a large public gathering, including significant numbers of people, and were used to monitor activity throughout the square. The data collected reportedly encompassed facial recognition, location tracking, and other biometric information. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that the information gathered was used for national security purposes, including identifying potential threats. The extent and nature of this surveillance activity are subjects of ongoing investigation.

Credits: NYT > Top Stories