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Home > Open Access Journals > JSS > Vol. 16 > No. 2 (2023)

 

Author Biography

Shelby Brennan received her Bachelor’s degree in Homeland Security, Emergency Preparedness, and Cyber Security and MS degree in Information Science with a concentration in Intelligence Analysis from the University of Albany. She has a strong interest in the application of emerging technologies and new forms of data in all types of investigations.

Dr. Stephen Coulthart is an associate professor at the University at Albany in the College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security, and Cybersecurity. His research concentrates on intelligence analysis and technology implementation in homeland and national security organizations.

Dr. Brian Nussbaum is an associate professor in the College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity at the University at Albany. His research has been published in the International Journal of Intelligence and Counterintelligence and the Journal of Cyber Policy, among others. He formerly served as senior intelligence analyst with the New York State Office of Counter Terrorism.

DOI

https://doi.org/10.5038/1944-0472.16.2.2070

Subject Area Keywords

Intelligence analysis, Intelligence collection

Abstract

The use of third-party location data (3PLD)—geospatial data captured by smart devices and sold by ‘data brokers’—for intelligence and investigations is increasing each year. This data source provides opportunities for analysts and decision makers to better understand as well as counter a host of security threats from common criminals to terrorists. However, and like other emerging and potent sources of intelligence like social media intelligence (SOCMINT), 3PLD must also be wielded legitimately by the government. We argue that the in the US context the legal framework surrounding these data is unclear. Due to the legal ambiguity as well as technological advancements, we note that misuse by the government is more likely to occur. Concurrently, malicious actors are using 3PLD in ways that threaten security. We argue action from a variety of stakeholders will be necessary to navigate these challenges in the brave new world of commercially available location data.

Acknowledgements

The authors wish to thank David Turetsky, Anthony Peters, and two anonymous reviewers for feedback on earlier versions of this paper.

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