An analysis of cell phone technology, security and individual rightsIn this technology-driven era, I wonder what effect cell phones have on our lives as American citizens? To investigate this, I read two articles. The first reading was "Mobile Phone Tracking Scrutinized" by Nikki Swartz, originally published in the March/April 2006 Information Management Journal, and the second reading was "Reach out and Track Someone" by Terry J. Allen, originally published by In These Times. on May 15, 2006. In his article, Swartz questions the legality of using a cell phone's GPS system as a tracking device in situations where crimes are involved. She argues the potential violation of Fourth Amendment rights and describes the loopholes our government avoids when data is used as a surveillance device. In his article “Reach Out and Track Someone,” Allen presents the conspiracy theorist’s perspective on the use of cell phone data tracking. She suggests the government is using warrantless wiretapping and claims communications companies and the government have been involved in questionable activities (p1). Swartz and Allen question government practices in using cellphone data; Swartz sees the problem as practical in some cases where Allen sees a clear violation of privacy. Both articles raise two important questions. How do we define our expectations of privacy, and when do the needs of government take precedence or even violate an individual's expectations of privacy? Swartz and Allen both agree that the government's use of cellphone surveillance is questionable, but they disagree on where the line should be drawn. be drawn. For example, Swartz's view is objective when prosecutors make the argument that having access to such crucial data is imp......middle of the document......w, after both readings, I do. Both Swartz and Allen offer valuable perspectives on privacy expectations and legal limitations on the use of cell phone data tracking. As technology consumers, Americans don't always use cell phones by choice, sometimes by necessity. Both authors advise us to question our position on unwarranted government involvement in our lives. I encourage us all to be aware of all the technology around us. While this is convenient, we must be willing to accept our part in its use.Works CitedWorks CitedSwartz, Nikki. “Cell phone tracking scrutinized.” Findarticles.com March 2006: n. page. Internet. August 4, 2010. .Allen, Terry. “Contact and follow someone.” In these times May 15, 2006: n. page. Internet. 4ug 2010. .>.