Originally Posted by
Bart
Same rationale applies to visiting FlyerTalk. While there may be DHS managers and/or even private contractors who are paid to perform data-mining for the government, they cannot take action unless certain legal parameters are met. In other words (and I don't know what those parameters are, but for the sake of argument I'll give an example), if data-mining uncovers a potential terrorist plot being discussed online, then measures can be taken to pursue. Even then, this is still relatively new and relatively untested in the courts; I don't think there are that many federal magistrates willing to authorize search/arrest warrants based purely on data-mining surveillance. And for those who insist on getting wrapped around the axle whenever topics like this come up on FlyerTalk, no, I'm not a lawyer, and no, this is not legal advise nor legal opinion. However, as one who has conducted numerous intelligence collection/surveillance/investigative activities over a 20 year period, including what was then emerging online internet information, I've had to stay within a very restrictive legal framework that is basically no different than the collection of any other form of criminal evidence or intelligence information. So my experience shouldn't be too far off the mark with respect to current policy.
Yeah, the Administration would certainly like more latitude; however, Congress and the Supreme Court are very resistant, and with good reason. This is all still relatively new; nobody wants to open a Pandora's Box that will infringe upon our privacy.
So much of the above is inaccurate in how things go today that I won't even start to tear it apart; that is, it's misleading in so many regards that it would take hours upon hours to show all the different ways in which it is not representative on so many levels.
Originally Posted by Bart
But if you believe that DHS specifically monitors my posts or keeps track of my online activities just because I'm a TSA employee, then your statement if way off the mark.
I never claimed that, so I'm not way off the mark. The only one here who has presented such a belief as being a done-deal vis-a-vis you is you.
Originally Posted by Bart
The only time DHS can directly monitor my online activities is when I use DHS computers and/or networks to access the internet.
This is not accurate either unless you are taking some extraordinary steps in your online-related activities.