I had intended for this post to be another of the "big brother is watching" style contributions but for something different I'd like to just present some points and solicit your comments as I'd like to see where my feelings fit in the steemit user spectrum.
abc.net.au
The article in question is entitled "Facebook is looking to roll out its suicide prevention software worldwide" and can be found here
Some starting points taken from the article for discussion:
- Facebook wants to start monitoring your social media feed for signs of suicidal thoughts.
- Facebook says it does that by scanning Facebook posts and live videos for words and phrases that could signal suicidal intent.
- The system also monitors how you respond to those posts.
- Once the software has identified a user who may be considering suicide, it alerts a team of specialists.
- That team can then alert the authorities if necessary or point the user to support services, such as helplines, where they can get advice.
- To accelerate the process, Facebook said it was using artificial intelligence and automation where possible.
- Facebook hasn't said where they'll be rolling out the software next, but it says the aim is to eventually have it operating worldwide.
- It will not, however, be rolled out in the European Union (EU) due to "sensitivities".
So to keep this post short, what do you think? An inevitable and inexcusable invasion of privacy especially when considering the authorities could be called? A slippery slope leading to the live policing of anything and everything? A wonderful use of technology? Perhaps a philanthropic contribution to the welfare on the online community?
I'm interested in your points of view! Thanks in advance.