AI and Privacy – Navigating a World of Constant Surveillance

Abstract

As Artificial Intelligence becomes increasingly embedded in the infrastructure of modern life, it brings with it profound challenges to personal privacy and data protection. The rise of surveillance technologies powered by AI—ranging from facial recognition and predictive policing to targeted advertising and biometric monitoring—has reshaped the boundaries of public and private space. While these systems promise greater efficiency and security, they often operate in opaque and unaccountable ways, raising serious concerns about civil liberties, autonomy, and consent. Explainable AI (XAI) plays a vital role in demystifying the decision-making processes of these systems, enabling oversight and promoting ethical accountability. This paper explores the intersection of AI and privacy, focusing on how explainability can serve as a counterbalance to the growing culture of surveillance. It investigates the technical, social, and legal implications of AI-driven monitoring, and proposes a framework for aligning technological innovation with democratic values and human rights.