Police Tech Requires Better Trained Officers, More Cybersecurity

Police departments should better train their officers on how to use new technologies like artificial intelligence, robotics, biometrics and surveillance systems and have clearer rules on how and when they can be used, a new report says.

In addition to more robust training, law enforcement agencies should also implement adequate oversight of their officers’ use of new technologies, including using audit logs that could detect misuse or abuse, according to a Jan. 9 report from the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation.

Because of the sensitive nature of police work, data must be secured, and systems should be regularly updated. Additionally, cyber hygiene training should be required for all officers, the report said, calling for additional training for those that “directly interface” with police technology, the report said.