As reported by Wired, the agency has commissioned a $3 million one-year contract to Accenture Federal Services to scan the social network sites in real time, and flag up keywords that may help reveal if there is a trend to mentions of health related posts. The agency says it will then be able to conduct a threat analysis on the data.

In other words, if you post a status update saying you have a bad cold, it will be analysed by software that can sift out the same kind of posts from individuals in locations near to you. Specific ailments could be related to a viral outbreak or a bio-terror attack, according to the DHS. The agency claims such information could be used to slow the spread of disease, develop early warning systems and help advise emergency services.

via Big Sis To Monitor Facebook, Twitter For “Bioterrorism And Pandemics” | Pakalert Press.

Categories: news