THE INTERNET OF THINGS (IoT) AND SMART CITIES IN PUBLIC SAFETY: POTENTIAL FOR INTEGRATION AND STRATEGIC APPLICATION IN THE PARANÁ MILITARY POLICE (PMPR)

Abstract

The confluence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the contemporary challenges of public security establishes a new paradigm for state action. This scientific article explores, from a legal, technological, and social perspective, the potential for integrating Internet of Things (IoT) technologies and Smart Cities infrastructures within the scope of public security, with a specific and applied focus on the Military Police of Paraná (PMPR). The research is based on the following problem: how can IoT technologies and Smart City platforms be strategically, legally, and ethically integrated into PMPR's operations to optimize crime prevention, emergency response, and security management in the state? The central hypothesis argues that the systematic integration of these technologies, contingent upon the creation of a robust normativeoperational framework that ensures the protection of fundamental rights – notably privacy and due process – and the integrity of digital evidence, has the potential to transform public security in Paraná, enhancing the efficiency of ostensive-preventive policing and optimizing resource allocation. Through a bibliographic and documentary research methodology with a qualitative and analytical approach, the paper examines the conceptual architecture of IoT and Smart Cities, their tactical and strategic applications in police activity, and the complex emerging legal and ethical challenges, such as mass surveillance, data protection (LGPD), algorithmic biases, and the chain of custody of digital evidence. Finally, it proposes guidelines for a strategic implementation model for the PMPR, which includes data governance, technical
training, and transparency as pillars of legitimacy and effectiveness. It is concluded that the adoption of these technologies by the PMPR is not a matter of "if," but of "how," requiring an in-depth, multidisciplinary debate to ensure that technological innovation
serves to strengthen the Democratic Rule of Law and the effective protection of the society of Paraná.