Rivers State University Journal of Public Law

Abstract
In the digital age, the rapid evolution of surveillance technologies has fundamentally transformed the
way data is collected, processed, and utilized by governments, corporations, and individuals. While
these advancements enhance security and efficiency, they also pose significant risks to privacy,
autonomy, and civil liberties. This study investigates the delicate balance between surveillance and
privacy, examining the legal frameworks that govern the use of technology in the digital age. It delved
into major issues such as data protection, cybersecurity, and government surveillance, analysing the
evolving legal landscape and the challenges it presents. The study adopts a qualitative methodology,
combining a comprehensive review of existing literature, legal frameworks, and case studies. Data were
gathered from academic journals, legal documents, policy reports, and media sources to analyse key
themes, including privacy protection, the balance between security and privacy, and the global
challenges of regulating surveillance. Findings revealed that while legal frameworks like the GDPR
have set global standards for privacy protection, enforcement challenges and technological
advancements undermine their efficacy. The study highlights the tension between national security
objectives and individual privacy rights, particularly in the context of mass surveillance programs and
corporate data practices. It identifies the potential of privacy-enhancing technologies, encryption, and
zero-trust security models to mitigate privacy risks while ensuring necessary surveillance. The research
concluded that the future demands a concerted effort to align legal frameworks, technological
innovation, and international cooperation to create a digital environment where both security and
privacy are protected. Among the recommendations made includes strengthening privacy laws,
fostering international cooperation, and promoting public awareness of data privacy. It also
emphasizes the need for proactive regulation of artificial intelligence in surveillance.

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