Study finds software can’t replace spy agency data gathering

According to a new analysis from the National Research Council, software won’t be able to fully replace intelligence agencies’ bulk collection of communications. While the new report throws cold water on the idea that the National Security Agency could use software to replace the bulk collection of people’s communications, researchers said that it could still help reduce that data gathering.

“From a technological standpoint, curtailing bulk data collection means analysts will be deprived of some information,” said Robert Sproull, the head of the study committee. Still, “a reduction in bulk collection can be partially mitigated by improving targeted collection, and technologies can improve oversight and transparency and help reduce the conflict between collection and privacy,” he said.