- Texas Department of Public Safety spent $4.5 million on four Chevy Tahoes equipped with Cognyte's FalcoNet cell-site simulator technology.
- FalcoNet mimics a cell tower, forcing all phones in range to connect, collecting data without warrants or user consent.
- Texas has no state law requiring warrants for this surveillance, unlike federal agencies which must obtain them.
- The purchase contrasts with unresolved state issues like the unstable electric grid, water shortages, and underfunded public services.
- Cognyte is an Israeli company with ties to surveillance used against journalists, activists, and occupied populations.
- Similar technology is being adopted by other U.S. police departments, expanding surveillance capabilities nationally.
- The article criticizes Texas's political hypocrisy, advocating for individual freedom while funding warrantless surveillance.
- Recommendations include reading investigative reports, contacting legislators, voting for specific candidates, and raising public awareness.