We should be very concerned that theyâre trying, but this [quote]extensive use of keyword searching as well as computer programs designed to analyze and âextractâ the content of voice conversations, and even use sophisticated algorithms to flag conversations of interest.[/quote] âŚis just a fear rumor. Itâs main effect would be to cause honest people to self-censor lest they run afoul of some faceless, literally-inhuman spy that would rat them out for a factually-innocent conversationâŚ
The proof that itâs just a fear rumour is that even humans canât do whatâs being claimed, for any body of communication between adults who are even slightly sensitive to their being snooped on. Strong regional or ethnic accents, the use of in-group jargon or cant, the inclusion of metaphor or analogyâall these things will stump even native speakers whoâre trying to make sense of what theyâre hearing.
Anyone who doesnât believe that should get together with a couple of friends, have the friends covertly agree a topic of conversation, and then as the friends communicate briefly about it, try to decode what theyâre saying about whatever theyâre talking about. It ainât easy.