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Japan's National Police Agency has recommended a new approach to combating anonymous crime groups, suggesting the early adoption of remote analysis of smartphones used by these groups. Despite concerns over the constitutionally protected secrecy of communications, the panel believes that with proper court warrants and other safeguards, remote analysis could be a valuable tool in preventing harm.

The proposal centers on obtaining the contents of communication apps on smartphones used by anonymous groups, which are often used in fraud and robbery cases. However, the panel acknowledges that compatibility with communication secrecy and other rights remains an issue, and that any restrictions would be within unavoidable scope.

The main procedure for remote analysis would involve apprehending perpetrators, identifying their smartphones, obtaining a court warrant, conducting remote analysis, and identifying the next target of the group. The information obtained would be used not only to prevent harm but also in subsequent criminal investigations. The panel emphasizes the need for careful system design to ensure that devices used by people unrelated to crimes are not subject to remote analysis.