New Document Shows How the US Government is Tracking People Through Their Credit Cards

DOJ powerpoint presentation on Hotwatch surveillance orders of credit card transactions

A document, obtained by security researcher Christopher Soghoian, further shows how the United States government is tracking its people through the use of the credit cards.

“Hotwatch” orders allow for real-time tracking of individuals in a criminal investigation via credit card companies, rental car agencies, calling cards, and even grocery store loyalty programs. The revelation sheds a little more light on the Justice Department’s increasing power and willingness to surveil Americans with little to no judicial or Congressional oversight.