The Olympics Is a Testing Ground for Pre-Crime-Style Mass Surveillance

As Paris shows itself off to the world with the Olympics, beneath the surface lurks a troubling experiment in digital surveillance and urban militarization that may well redefine public space and personal freedom in the era of global events. With a blend of historic charm and modern technology, the City of Lights has transformed not only in terms of infrastructure but also in its approach to security, deploying an array of invasive measures that have stirred significant public unrest and debate.

Paris has categorized its Olympic venues into three distinct types, each presenting unique challenges and solutions in security management. The first type includes permanent sports facilities scattered across the city, where traditional security measures suffice. The second type consists of iconic public spaces and historical monuments repurposed for the games, secured by miles of chain-link fencing that starkly contrasts with the architectural beauty, earning the nickname "cages" among locals. The third and most controversial type encompasses the Seine River, the centerpiece for the opening ceremony, now heavily restricted and surrounded by barriers that have effectively privatized this public treasure.

Imagine strolling through the streets of Paris, not just with a croissant in hand but also armed with a QR-coded "Games Pass." This little digital marvel is your ticket to all the Olympic action. But it's more than just a pass; it bears a striking resemblance to the health and vaccine passports gaining traction across the EU. Coincidence? Maybe not.

At the heart of both the "Games Passes" and health passports is a simple yet powerful technology: the QR code. This tiny square becomes your digital key, granting or denying access based on the data it holds. Whether you're trying to enter a sports arena or a restaurant, a quick scan verifies if you meet the necessary criteria, like vaccination status or event accreditation. It's efficient and streamlined, but it also centralizes a lot of personal data.

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