One can only imagine a government capable of stopping a terrorist before an attack occurs. Surveillance is the answer. But is surveillance strictly “security,” or is that what they want you to think? Americans are sacrificing their civil liberties by letting the government police unnecessary areas. The U.S. Constitution guarantees privacy under the Fourth Amendment. The Constitution also states that individuals have the right to be free from unwanted surveillance by the government. People, not big businesses or the government, should be able to decide when and how others can link to your personal information. The information they receive violates privacy. Citizens must take a stand against this invasion of privacy by protecting all sensitive information, whether called “metadata” or “content.” Information must be protected and retained by third parties, as well as information derived from other data. (“Privacy and Government Surveillance”). The Security Industry Association states that the estimated number of surveillance cameras installed in the United States is in the millions. The widespread use of cameras is leading a group called the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) to question the increased use of surveillance cameras and ask "why now?" The ACLU links the use of cameras to George Orwell's book "1984," saying they create a "Big Brother" feel; Which means they are always being monitored. The epidemic of CCTV cameras is partly responsible for terrorist attacks, such as the September 11 attacks, as well as increased crime. Critics say policies implemented to combat terrorism go too far, reducing civil liberties,...... middle of paper ......l calls around states' use of the carrier -United in the last 3 months. Metadata means any information regarding any type of communication or data used. Metadata contains where a call was made, tracks current locations, incoming and outgoing called numbers, can also be leveraged. The NSA denies anything about collecting personal information, but according to former NSA employees, they say otherwise (“NSA Surveillance Programs”). In conclusion, modern use of surveillance contributes to public safety, but not so much as to constitute an invasion. of private life. Americans must be aware of and protect their civil liberties. There should be no fine line between public safety and an invasion of privacy. NSA programs are illegal and overly broad. Don't let the US Constitution be ignored. wherever you are, “Big Brother is watching you.”