AlgorithmWatch: Automating Injustice: “Predictive” policing in Germany

Source URL: https://algorithmwatch.org/en/automating-injustice-predictive-policing-germany/
Source: AlgorithmWatch
Title: Automating Injustice: “Predictive” policing in Germany

Feedly Summary: The police, criminal justice authorities, and prisons in Germany are increasingly exploring digital possibilities for “predicting" and "preventing" crimes. The report Automating Injustice gives an overview of such systems being developed and deployed in Germany.

AI Summary and Description: Yes

Summary: The text discusses the increasing use of AI-driven data analysis within law enforcement and criminal justice in Germany, focusing on the implications of geographic crime prediction and individual profiling. It highlights concerns regarding discrimination and the legal framework surrounding these technologies, providing insights into policy recommendations for better governance in algorithmic policing.

Detailed Description: The report examines the operational use of AI in policing and criminal justice in Germany, stressing its implications and risks.

– **AI-Driven Data Analysis**: The use of AI, particularly in predictive algorithms, in police and criminal justice settings is on the rise. This includes geographic crime prediction and individual profiling.

– **Geographic Crime Prediction**: This involves analyzing crime patterns geographically to predict where crimes may occur in the future, potentially leading to proactive policing strategies.

– **Individual Profiling**: AI systems are increasingly used for profiling individuals, raising significant ethical and privacy concerns regarding bias and discrimination.

– **Legal and Ethical Concerns**: Many of the systems in use lack adequate legal grounding, which raises questions regarding their compliance with privacy laws and ethical standards.

– **Policy Recommendations**: The report suggests the need for a more robust legal framework to regulate algorithmic policing and recommends stronger safeguards to mitigate the risks associated with these technologies.

– **Reinforcement of Discrimination**: The report highlights how these AI systems can reinforce and exacerbate existing discrimination, which poses a fundamental risk to communities and social equity.

– **Call for Transparency and Accountability**: There is an emphasis on the need for transparency around how these predictive systems function and what data they use, to hold authorities accountable.

The implications of this text are significant for security and compliance professionals who must navigate the balance between leveraging technology for efficiency in law enforcement while upholding ethical standards and ensuring compliance with privacy regulations. As AI continues to be integrated into critical sectors, understanding and addressing its risks and implications will be paramount.