Introduction. The rapid development of digital technologies has enabled the widespread use of video surveillance, biometric identification, geolocation and automated analysis. These technologies play an important role in maintaining public safety and preventing offences. However, their uncontrolled use may create risks to privacy and personal data protection.
Digital surveillance systems should be used in accordance with the principles of legality, purpose limitation, necessity and proportionality. Each system should clearly define the purpose of data collection, the categories of data processed, the retention period and the persons authorised to access the information. Excessive data unrelated to the stated purpose should not be collected.
Before a system is introduced, its potential impact on privacy and human rights should be assessed. The assessment should identify possible risks, the likelihood of their occurrence and measures for reducing negative consequences. Biometric data should receive enhanced protection as high-risk information, while decisions produced by automated systems should remain subject to human oversight.
Information security measures should include role-based access control, multi-factor authentication, data encryption, comprehensive activity logging and regular audits. A separate procedure should also be established for detecting, containing and resolving incidents involving unauthorised disclosure or loss of data.
Citizens should receive clear information about the data collected about them and the purposes for which it is used. They should also be able to access their data, correct inaccurate information and request its deletion where provided by law.
Conclusion. Digital surveillance should maintain an appropriate balance between public safety and the right to privacy. Clear legal grounds, effective technical safeguards, transparency, regular audits and human oversight are the principal guarantees for the lawful and reliable use of these technologies.