New York Governor Employs Spies to Monitor Your Social Media

In a recent speech, New York Governor Kathy Hochul revealed that the state is using social media surveillance to combat hate speech. “We’re very focused on the data we’re collecting from surveillance efforts, what’s being said on social media platforms,” Hochul stated.

Governor Hochul declared that the state has launched an effort “to counter some of the negativity and reach out to people when we see hate speech being spoken about on online platforms.” She emphasized that the state’s social media analysis unit had increased its monitoring of sites to catch instances of violence incitement and direct threats to others.

This move follows a surge in antisemitic incidents in the city. The NYPD reported a shocking 214 percent increase in antisemitic incidents in October 2023 compared to October 2022. This rise in hate crimes came on the heels of an attack by the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas against Israel, which resulted in the deaths of over 1,300 Israelis and over 200 hostages taken.

Hochul’s comments were part of a larger discussion on the deployment of additional staff to the joint terrorism task force. She confirmed an additional $2.5 million has been directed to the New York State Police to deploy ten additional investigators in key areas such as New York City, Albany, Buffalo, and Rochester. This ensures the State Police have a presence in all JTTF investigative groups and areas.

According to a January WNBF report, the New York State Police have bought programs over the last decade that allow them to sift through social media information. These include programs like “Dataminr” and “ShadowDragon.”

Governor Hochul’s approach has sparked a debate about the balance between preserving freedom of speech and protecting citizens from hate speech and potential violence. While some applaud her proactive stance, others raise concerns about privacy and potential overreach. Governor Hochul’s recent moves to combat hate speech through social media surveillance highlight the growing role of technology in maintaining public safety.