NEWS

Question mark over camera net

While raising no objection to the use of some 1,300 security cameras to be installed in Athens and another five cities for the Summer Olympics, Greece’s privacy watchdog has expressed concerns regarding post-Games use of the electronic eyes, a report said yesterday. The Hellenic Data Protection Authority (HDPA) accepts that the closed-circuit cameras, which will be installed atop tall concrete poles at Olympic venues and on central Athens streets, are to «ensure citizens’ security,» according to the report in Ta Nea daily. But the paper said HDPA head Dimitris Gourgourakos has asked police officials for supplementary technical data regarding the possible uses of the cameras after the Aug. 13-29 Games. The government has said that the network will be used to monitor and regulate traffic flows in congested cities. The revolving cameras will also be fitted with microphones that will allow police to pinpoint sounds such as gunshots and explosions. Athens aside, Olympic venues in Thessaloniki, Patras, Volos, Iraklion and Larissa will also be fitted with cameras.

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