pixle via Flickr Security researcher Christopher Soghoian (via Wired) has uncovered a document through a Freedom Of Information Act request that shows how the Feds can track your credit card in real time.

The system is called "hotwatch" and it's basically a mechanism for law enforcement officials to track credit card purchases through a centralized system without a warrant. They just have to request the information, and voila.

The wisdom of this system can be debated (safety vs. privacy etc.). Mainly it serves as a reminder: They're watching.