All You Need To Know About Network Surveillance

By Brenda Morgan


Computer technology has taken the world by storm. These gadgets are used in almost every aspect of business activities. They have made working much easier and fun than it used to be before. Network surveillance is an emerging trend that has become popular in many organizations and firms that handle a lot of transactions on a day to day basis.

The system works by monitoring the movement of data between various users under an established network. A dedicated computer software is installed through either cracking or backdoor techniques. The flow of data is then analyzed and carefully examined to detect any criminal or irregular activity. This exercise can be done internally or by sourcing an independent firm to do the job at a distant location away from the organization.

This operation is commonly used by various parties ranging from the government, civil rights groups and some other private groups. The system has proved to be of great value to the government. It was initially adopted in developed nations, but more countries are seeing the need to have similar systems. The state can rely on these programs to monitor the activities of its citizens and also that of foreigners.

The program is designed to work through a system referred to as data capture. This process monitors the exchange of data by various parties via internet connections. Data is transmitted in the form of bit known as data packets. The software intercepts these packets and carefully examines to identify whether there is criminal intent. If illegal activity is detected the culprits can be traced and held accountable.

Incorporating such an operation in any setting can be very costly. A lot of resources are required to purchase equipment, install, implement and operate the whole process of data scrutiny. In most cases, funding from donors has been required to meet this huge expense. It is no wonder that most developing countries have struggled to set up such systems and have had to rely on Google for information needs.

However, having such an operation is very beneficial to an organization or state department. In organizations, these systems have prevented the misuse of resources by employees, activities such as online chatting and shopping while on duty have been minimized. It has led to the better safeguarding of assets especially intellectual properties, company secrets and business strategies from being hacked into.

Despite the numerous benefits, there are also shortcomings. The program requires highly specialized staff to operate; this adds the extra cost of training. Maintaining confidentiality of such programs is difficult due to the great risk of hackers and online crime. Finally, surveillance operation is not appreciated by persons who use media platforms such as YouTube, Twitter, and Facebook. The thought that they are under close watch makes individuals feel uncomfortable and edgy.

The last few decades have seen the increased use of the internet to communicate, share ideas and complete various transactions. The rise in cyber related crimes has led to the need to adopt a system that can monitor online activity to reduce criminal activities.




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