Transit authorities in cities across the country are quietly installing microphone-enabled surveillance systems on public buses that would give them the ability to record private conversations. San Francisco, Baltimore, and other cities are installing the listening devices with funding from the Department of Homeland Security.
Transit officials claim the systems will help improve the safety of passengers and drivers and resolve complaints from the riders. Civil liberties complained that the systems would violate wiretapping laws and constitutional protections against illegal search and apprehension.
Attorney generals indicated that signs warning passengers of the surveillance would help battle any illegal challenges.
Title: Public Buses Across Country Quietly Adding Microphones to Record Passenger Conversations”
Author: Kim Zetter
Source: Wired Magazine, 12/10/2012
http://www.wired.com/threatlevel/2012/12/public-bus-audio-surveillance/
Student researcher: Clarissa Palomera, Sonoma State University
Faculty Evaluator: Lena Mcquade, Sonoma State University