#DronesInLawEnforcement

[osintelligence]

https://bit.ly/3N9BHyq - 🌐 U.S. state governments and local police are extensively utilizing drones from Chinese manufacturers DJI and Autel, raising significant concerns about potential national security and privacy issues. These drones are being flown across the East Coast, despite lawmakers' warnings about the potential misuse of these devices by Beijing for aerial surveillance. #NationalSecurity #DroneTechnology 💼 The Capitol Police has acquired four drone models from China's Autel Robotics. While these drones are yet to be deployed around Washington D.C., this decision underscores a broader trend. DJI and Autel hold a 70% market share in local government markets across Florida, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. #LawEnforcement #CapitolPolice 🔒 The American intelligence community has attempted to curtail the data gathering efforts of Beijing's technology companies due to fears of espionage. Despite such concerns, Chinese-made drones are popular within law enforcement agencies and among the Capitol Police, mainly due to their cost-effectiveness and reliability. #IntelligenceCommunity #DataSecurity 📜 The American Security Drone Act of 2023 has been proposed to counter the apparent threat of foreign espionage. This legislation would prohibit federal agencies from purchasing drones from countries identified as national security threats, including China. However, companies like DJI and Autel argue their products are secure and that operators retain full control over the data collected. #Policy #SecurityDronesAct 🚁 A recent FOIA request revealed DJI and Autel as the dominant players in providing drones to American police departments and state governments. In fact, the two companies represent 68% of drone registrations across New Jersey, Florida, and New York. #FOIA #Surveillance 💰 DJI's dominance among American law enforcement is attributed to early market entry, low cost, and high reliability. Despite efforts to promote American and European brands like California-based Skydio and France’s Parrot, these alternatives remain overly expensive for most police departments. #MarketTrends #LawEnforcement 📹 Despite concerns about potential privacy invasions due to widespread drone usage, law enforcement agencies have continued their use, primarily due to economic considerations. Critics warn that the focus on drone origin distracts from the real issue: the impact on Americans' privacy as drones become more prevalent without the necessary oversight.