Amazon has begun installing connected cameras on delivery trucks to improve driver safety, but the move has sparked an outcry from associations criticizing continued surveillance.

“We have recently started implementing state-of-the-art camera-based security technology in our delivery fleet.“an Amazon spokeswoman confirmed to AFP on Thursday.”This technology will provide real-time alerts to drivers to help them stay safe while on the road.“.

Cameras equipped with an artificial intelligence system

The e-commerce giant has chosen Driveri, a camera model produced by the Netradyne company that incorporates an artificial intelligence (AI) system to analyze the data and notify drivers live. “Studies have shown that these cameras reduce collisions by a third through in-vehicle alerts and by a third through better driver behavior.”Emphasizes Karolina Haraldsdottir, an Amazon responsible for security during deliveries.

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He speaks in an internal video extolling the merits of the new system “for the safety of drivers and the communities they serve“Published by US media and authenticated by Amazon. The cameras are equipped with four lenses, so they film the road and the driver, but they do not record sound or broadcast live.”no one can invite themselves and listen during their deliveries“says Karolina Haraldsdottir.

It is the largest expansion of corporate surveillance in human history.

With Driveri, “a security officer will now have access to every minute of the driver’s day“Says Netradyne’s website.”It is the largest expansion of corporate surveillance in human history.”, Outraged Evan Greer, deputy director of the NGO Fight for the Future, which fights for human rights in a digital world.

“Amazon wants to turn its huge delivery fleet into a mobile army of surveillance cameras. These devices will aggravate the inhumane working conditions in which drivers already work. And they will violate everyone’s basic rights by constantly collecting and analyzing images in our neighborhoods.“He continued in a statement. According to the internal regulations on these cameras, published by the CNBC channel, they will also be used to evaluate the behavior of drivers, indicating that they did not stop at a stop, for example.”It seems inevitable that Amazon will find an easy way to share the videos with its 2,000 or so security partners.“adds Evan Greer, who is also concerned about the risk of camera hacking.