Drones are complex technology systems, with a range of capabilities, payloads and applications. In this paper Trilateral Research examines how the use of unmanned aircraft systems (UASs) or drones for civil applications (like policing, crowd control, infrastructure inspection, etc.) impacts upon privacy and other civil liberties. It argues that, despite the diversity of potential systems and uses, it is the same “usual suspects”, i.e., the poor, people of colour and anti-government protesters, that are targeted by drones, particularly when they are used by police. It also examines whether current privacy-related legislation in the US, UK and European Union is sufficient to address privacy and civil liberties concerns. It argues that because drones are such complex systems that integrate such a range of technologies and capabilities, they need to be assessed on a case-by-case basis. We further outline the ways in which privacy and data protection impact assessments can support industry to address some of these potential infringements and strengthen human rights on the ground when drones are being used.