Since 2015, there has be a secretive new surveillance tool, commonly referred to as a “Stingray,” being used by the FBI in cases around the country.
The device, which acts as a fake cell phone tower, essentially allows the government to electronically search large areas for a particular cell phone’s signal—sucking down data on potentially thousands of innocent people along the way. At the same time, law enforcement has attempted use them while avoiding many of the traditional limitations set forth in the Constitution, like individualized warrants.
Our own Homeland Security has given grants to law enforcement to buy them. Of course, “officially” for fighting terrorism.
Ignoring 4th Amendment protections for a moment, the use of the Stingray violates Federal Communications Act provisions also.
Many states have upheld these warrantless searches. Recently the DC Court of Appeals, citing the 4th Amendment ruled that stingray use without a warrant is unconstitutional.
A victory for freedom. Read more here.