Accessibility links
Tracking Patterns in Database of Millions of Calls Tracking and analyzing domestic phone calls would require pattern-recognition software and intense traffic analysis, two of the newest tools in the intelligence trade. Steven M. Bellovin, computer science professor at Columbia University, says the National Security Agency would have to use such techniques to analyze the huge databases turned over to the NSA by phone companies. Robert Siegel talks with Bellovin.
Special Series

NSA Questioned on Scope of Domestic Spying

A report alleges that the NSA is secretly collecting records of ordinary Americans' phone calls.

Tracking Patterns in Database of Millions of Calls

Heard on All Things Considered

Tracking Patterns in Database of Millions of Calls

Listen
  • Download
  • <iframe src="https://www.npr.org/player/embed/5399270/5399271" width="100%" height="290" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" title="NPR embedded audio player">
  • Transcript

Tracking and analyzing domestic phone calls would require pattern-recognition software and intense traffic analysis, two of the newest tools in the intelligence trade.

Steven M. Bellovin, computer science professor at Columbia University, says the National Security Agency would have to use such techniques to analyze the huge databases turned over to the NSA by phone companies.

Robert Siegel talks with Bellovin about the agency's efforts.

Special Series

NSA Questioned on Scope of Domestic Spying

A report alleges that the NSA is secretly collecting records of ordinary Americans' phone calls.