Reached for comment, Markey’s office provided WIRED with the senator’s statement. Posted on XIn it, he said the closure of the RFA tool was “a good thing.”
“I have been sounding the alarm about privacy and security issues with Amazon Ring for years,” Markey added. “We cannot allow Americans’ home security systems to become law enforcement surveillance tools. We must stop Big Tech’s growing web of surveillance systems.”
Evan Greer, director of the civil liberties group Fight for the Future and a vocal critic of Ring, said the company’s decision today is a big deal for those who have been campaigning against the company’s surveillance network. It was a “clear victory”, he said, but added in a statement: We’ve only just scratched the surface in addressing the damage caused by the Ring’s dystopian business model. ”
“We need a law. Local, state, and federal elected officials should ban these types of private surveillance partnerships completely and ensure that homeowners and businesses protect the privacy and rights of their neighbors.” There should be strict limits on where cameras can be placed to ensure they are not infringing,” Greer said.
Ring’s Yarger told WIRED that the decision to close the RFA tool was “purely internal,” noting that the company recently hired a new CEO, Liz Hamlen, who will take over in March 2023. He told WIRED. CEO and leader,” Yarger said. “As we look to the future of Neighbors, we are focusing our resources on delivering new product and app experiences that better align with Ring’s vision and help our customers connect with each other and stay informed about their local area. government and public safety agencies.”
The transition includes the launch of “Ring Moments,” which inspire “joy and hope,” such as videos of a bear in a pool or videos of neighbors helping with shovels, according to a company announcement today. Encourage users to share content they share. snow.
For Ring users still concerned about police overreach, EFF’s Guariglia points out that there are several steps they can take, including enabling end-to-end encryption on their devices. “Be aware of what the camera is pointing at and what footage and audio it collects from you, your family, and your neighbors,” he told WIRED. “If possible, try to erase the video/audio recorded on your camera as often as possible. And most importantly, if the police come and ask for your footage, get a warrant. It’s about demanding that you do it.”
