EmbeddingGemma 2: an open, lightweight multimodal embedding model
deepmind.google·6d ago
AI Engineering
MIT Technology Review·21d ago·5 min read
4 ways to address the failures we found along the US border’s “virtual wall”
TL;DR
An investigation revealed systemic failures in the US-Mexico border's surveillance system, leading to undetected deaths near the 'virtual wall.' Key issues include malfunctioning towers and unresponsive agents.
✦ Why It Matters
Advocate for improved accountability and maintenance of surveillance technology at the border.
Key Takeaways
- Conduct an audit of deaths near surveillance towers.
- Improve tracking systems for migrant fatalities.
- Investigate deaths as potential surveillance failures.
- Ensure accurate logging of technology-assisted apprehensions.
Full Summary
Surveillance towers along the US-Mexico border, intended to enhance security, have failed to detect many migrants, resulting in over 1,050 deaths near these installations. An investigation by MIT Technology Review and Times of San Diego highlighted issues such as broken technology, ineffective algorithms, and lack of response from agents.
The study relied on mapping efforts from the Electronic Frontier Foundation and satellite imagery to identify nearly 600 towers, revealing significant gaps in data and oversight. Recommendations for the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) include conducting a comprehensive audit of deaths, improving tracking of migrant fatalities, and investigating deaths as potential surveillance failures.
These steps aim to address the urgent need for accountability and effectiveness in border surveillance.