Sicurezza urbana, nuove tecnologie e protezione dei dati personali

Abstract

This article examines the legal limits governing the use of advanced digital technologies by local authorities for urban security purposes, with particular regard to the protection of personal data. Starting from the elastic notion of urban security in Italian law, it analyses how data-driven tools such as intelligent video surveillance and algorithmic systems challenge principles of legality and proportionality. Drawing on EU data protection law, European and national case law, and the practice of the Italian Data Protection Authority, the study highlights the structural inadequacy of the current normative framework. The absence of sufficiently detailed legal bases shifts substantive legality control to the supervisory authority, with significant effects on administrative discretion. The article concludes by advocating for a clearer legislative framework capable of ensuring a stable balance between technological innovation, urban security objectives, and fundamental rights protection