Canada Has Hidden Microphones In Airports Recording Conversations

by Mike Masnick
Techdirt
Jun. 20, 2012

Some recent news out of Canada involves reports that the airport in Ottawa has hidden microphones installed, designed to record conversations of people. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) doesn't seem to see anything wrong with this, admitting that it's spent $500,000 upgrading video equipment to also include audio capturing. And, while the CBSA says that:

“It is important to note that even though audio technology is installed, no audio is recorded at this time. It will become functional at a later date..."

...it's also worth pointing out that the group admits similar equipment is already functional elsewhere.

What about your privacy rights? Well, clearly you read the fine print on the website of the airport you were using, right? That's where the details are going to be posted. There will be signs in the airport... telling you to check the website, because you just know people are going to rush to do that.