France Approves Remote Camera Activation on Citizens' Phones for Police Surveillance

France has passed a controversial new bill that grants police the power to remotely access suspects' cameras, microphones, and GPS on their phones and other devices. The bill has been criticized as a "snoopers" charter, allowing unfettered access to citizens' locations. Police can activate cameras and microphones to record video and audio of suspects, but the provision will only apply to crimes punishable by a minimum of five years in jail. An amendment was added to the bill requiring judge approval for surveillance and limiting its duration to six months. The passing of the bill comes amidst ongoing protests in France over police violence and government expansion of surveillance powers.