Computers, Freedom and Privacy Conference 2005

The 15th Annual Computers, Freedom, and Privacy Conference (CFP) took place from April 12 to 15, 2005, at the Westin Hotel in Seattle, Washington. Organized by the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), this conference served as a prominent forum for discussing the intersection of technology, freedom, and privacy.

The 2005 conference centered around the theme "Panopticon," focusing on the escalating surveillance by both governmental and private entities. Key sessions addressed topics such as the balance between security and privacy, the implications of pervasive surveillance, and alternative approaches to countering terrorism without extensive monitoring.

Attendees had opportunities to engage in panel discussions, workshops, and networking events. Notable speakers included experts like Matt Curtin, who participated in the panel "Observing Hidden Surveillance Structures," shedding light on lesser-known surveillance infrastructures affecting daily life.

The conference attracted a diverse audience, including technologists, legal professionals, policymakers, and civil liberties advocates. It provided a platform for critical discussions on privacy rights and the societal impacts of surveillance, making it a valuable event for those concerned with digital freedoms.