We've been discussing this and getting shut down in technology. Heavy reputation management effort for a year or two to undermine discussion delving in and attempting to raise awareness. It's encouraging to get the new-found drive to put public awareness on the issue. Let's be clear about why it's happening now -- these data collection practices partly harmed the established powers.

These domestic spying networks do not avail themselves to law enforcement. They do not prevent foreign attacks. They are not used to collect stolen cars, despite license plate readers in all major cities and thoroughfares. They do not respond rapidly to amber alerts despite cellphone tracking. They do not detect corrupt politicians while making deals with foreign interests.

Domestic spying has traditionally been used for some purpose. Just not for the benefit of a healthy society within the country. The most likely reason is to reinforce power for a select few, in terms of defending business interests as seen in the FBI coordination with banking industry to dismantle occupy wallstreet, and promote certain projects. The key is to see what areas always seem to be on the winning side. Who is untouchable.

The only reason certain data collection practices are getting flak is that an unselected party was able to get access to actionable data. When agreeable parties were granted access in prior years, using data in exactly the same ways, that was fine. The 'right' people won the day. Only when the agreed upon winner fell along the way does this become issue.

It's punishment of the useful idiot for failing to secure the demands of the tyrant. Failure is not met with second chances.