XKeyscore

XKeyscore is a global surveillance program operated by the United States National Security Agency (NSA) and its Five Eyes allies. It allows analysts to search vast databases of internet data collected by the NSA. The program is designed to sift through and analyze metadata and content from various sources, including internet browsing, emails, and instant messages.

The existence of XKeyscore was revealed in 2013 by Edward Snowden, a former NSA contractor. Documents leaked by Snowden indicated that XKeyscore accesses and analyzes internet communications from individuals around the world, without requiring prior authorization for collection. The NSA has stated that XKeyscore is a critical tool for identifying and tracking foreign intelligence targets, including terrorists.

Critics argue that XKeyscore represents a significant expansion of government surveillance capabilities, raising concerns about privacy and civil liberties. The program's ability to collect and search such a wide range of personal data has led to widespread debate about the balance between national security and individual rights. The NSA maintains that its activities are conducted lawfully and are subject to oversight, though the exact scope and implementation of this oversight remain a subject of discussion.