In his commentary, BNS editor Kalev Korv emphasizes the dangers of allowing the state to intrude into citizens' private lives through surveillance mechanisms under the guise of combating crime. He argues that the balance between ensuring safety and protecting individual privacy is precarious, as heavy-handed regulations can create a culture of fear among the populace.

Korv notes that Estonia's anti-money laundering efforts have reached an unprecedented level, with banks investing hundreds of millions into compliance. However, he highlights that the rules are often excessively complicated and confusing for the average person, which can lead to frustration and a sense of helplessness when faced with bureaucratic hurdles, such as blocked transactions or ambiguous inquiries about the origins of their funds.

The commentary underscores the need for a thoughtful approach to governance that fosters trust rather than fear. By creating tools that surveil citizens, the government risks alienating the public and igniting a fear of the state, which can undermine the very intentions behind policies aimed at fighting crime. As such, Korv advocates for maintaining personal privacy while addressing the need for effective crime fighting measures.