We’re always being watched |Photo from Heidi Cuevas, PantherNow
Leeann Sanon | Staff Writer
Artificial intelligence is when computer systems have the ability to replicate human cognitive processes. AI cameras are real time recording used simultaneously with automated functions. These AI cameras can implement facial recognition software to track the whereabouts of people, cars, and other objects.
Many schools in California and Newark are using AI cameras to monitor students’ facial and bodily behavior to prevent school shootings and other possible casualties. AI cameras are being branded as the latest security system upgrade but that is misleading. AI cameras cannot predict when acts of violence will take place nor can they make that guarantee.
San Diego State University (SDSU) and Newark Public Schools have installed thousands of AI cameras across their campuses. SDSU specifically has installed thirteen hundred AI equipped cameras worth 1.3 million. Of the thirteen hundred AI cameras installed 28% of them are located in student housing facilities. In both instances they used Avigilon to manufacture their AI cameras. The functions of Avigilon AI cameras include facial recognition, behavioral analysis, and environmental monitoring.
The monitoring of bodily movements is based on implementing AI with human biases. These perceived actions on how school threats behave and express themselves can limit the pool for perpetrators of actual crimes. The profiling used provides an unreliable threat assessment because of the possibility of misidentification which can jeopardize individuals and put their safety at risk. Too much trust is put in the hands of AI to verify possible threats.
In the case that FIU does install AI cameras, a system needs to be in place to maintain and limit unnecessary bias. AI cameras are essentially the manifestation of a surveillance state. The application of this would be a total misrepresentation of what the students of FIU want.
AI cameras could have access to too much data especially when it comes to schools. Current AI policy standards are weak. AI policies do not appropriately limit the creation of obscene content and with this in mind, there is an added layer of worry regarding students’ sensitive information. If such information is released it can cause severe harm.
An added layer of insecurity is established with AI cameras because there is no guarantee on who is watching and why. This collection of data is unnecessary. They are pervasive and frankly an opportunity to condition young adults to being watched 24/7.
The possibility of a data breach is also unsettling. FIU students recently experienced a data breach when canvas was hacked in April 2026. So another breach is not out of question.
If FIU decides to implement AI cameras another possible breach would be terrible. In the instance that there is a data breach more sensitive information could be released. And given the nature of AI cameras, the information could pertain to specific students’ routines while on FIU campus which would put students at risk. The governance of our data as students of FIU is not only our responsibility but also our institution.
FIU as an institution should not know everything about you. Not which starbucks you frequent or the specific staircase you take to class. Such information is unimportant. Instead of surveilling its students and staff, FIU should prioritize other forms of safety precautions.
AI cameras are a new type of surveillance in the sense that they remove the anonymity of traditional forms of surveillance. Huge amounts of data is relatively available. This continuation towards wanting more data is a problem. There is an over estimation with how much watching is needed to prevent tragedies, along with the data needed for that.
To what capacity can we agree that surveillance is enough? Will the implementation of AI cameras be enough? Or will they continue to push boundaries? AI cameras may give the illusion of security but the truth is that individuals personal freedom is infringed upon for this gesture of safety. AI cameras will not necessarily save you from immediate danger rather they will just be continuously watching.
The uncertainties that surround AI makes it hard to enact laws because AI itself is mostly unknown. AI guidelines are completely necessary. The trade off to an over dependence on AI is a lack of originality. Presumably AI will replace or integrate itself into all aspects of our life.
I understand that AI anxiety is prevalent because it brings an atmosphere of unfamiliarity. Today, AI is attempting to replace or push rigid boundaries. AI conglomerates see an opportunity to exploit the lack of regulations and the ambiguity with privacy protections.
AI cameras are the personification of my fears of surveillance. Students all over the United States, including FIU students, have an unspoken agreement about the right to privacy. The implementation of AI cameras would undermine this. The current standard that we abide by would be disrupted if FIU allows the installation of AI cameras.
The desire for privacy is ever progressing given the state of surveillance. You cannot go anywhere without being watched on cameras. AI cameras didn’t create this but instead it will further progress this monitoring.
DISCLAIMER:
The opinions presented on this page do not represent the views of the PantherNOW Editorial Board. These views are separate from editorials and reflect the perspectives of contributing writers and/or university community members.
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