Argentina

    Impact | Negative

    Rating CIVICUS | Narrowed

    Different social organizations expressed their concern about the possible implications of a protocol approved by the Ministry of Security on May 31, which enables security forces to perform cyber patrols on open sources and social networks. Authorities are seeking to detect crimes in relation to COVID-19, such as the marketing and distribution of counterfeit drugs. The observation and analysis of citizen information in the digital environment is, according to expert opinion, a criminal intelligence activity rather than crime prevention; therefore, it can only be performed under certain limits and with the proper authorizations. Using an intelligence tool to collect evidence of criminal activity en masse is an illegal practice that could hinder public debate, the circulation of ideas and the right to privacy. CSO representatives also emphasized that more information is needed on how the protocol will be applied and the technical means that will be used to enforce it.

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    Fundación Directorio Legislativo
    Avenida Entre Ríos, 258 – 3E
    Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina (C1079ABP)
    Phone (+5411) 5218-4647