Abstract

The rapid growth of digital technologies has reshaped the landscape of individual privacy and national security, with profound implications for the growing role of state surveillance in the name of cybersecurity. Governments around the globe have introduced far-reaching measures for surveillance in the name of countering cyber attacks, terrorism, and organized crime. But these measures usually take a toll on digital rights, especially the freedom of expression and the right to privacy. This report examines the intricate interaction between national security demands and the rights of individuals to privacy, reviewing how surveillance schemes, governing legislation, and new technologies affect the balance. It considers judicial attitudes towards surveillance, bringing out cases and legal issues that have established the parameters of privacy safeguards. Moreover, the paper assesses the influence of artificial intelligence, big data analytics, facial recognition, and the Internet of Things (IoT) on state surveillance, posing ethical and legal concerns regarding mass data collection and algorithmic decision-making. Case studies across different nations demonstrate the degree to which governments use cybersecurity issues to justify invasive monitoring, frequently with minimal oversight and accountability. While national security is a valid concern, the unregulated growth of state surveillance is a serious threat to democratic values and basic human rights. The research highlights the imperative for enhanced legal protections, independent monitoring bodies, and public education to guarantee that cybersecurity efforts are not used as a cover for mass surveillance. The research adds to the current discourse regarding digital rights and security, calling for the delicate balance between ensuring national interests and preserving individual rights in the digital world.

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