Recently, Moscow introduced pay using face for its famous Metro system relying on biometric technology. This is one example, similarly, in China, the UK, and other places around the globe, Biometric technology is progressing.
London-based Face Watch sells security systems that alert shop staff to the presence of a ‘’ subject of interest’’- someone who has behaved antisocially. Similarly, London-based facial Verification company iProov tested systems that allow employers to verify their Covid test using their faces. Additionally, USA Company Clearview revealed in 2020, about the collection of users’ facial data to share with the police.
Above all, US-owned Company CRB Cunninghams deployed facial recognition tech in lunch halls. The reason was to speed up the payment and reduce the risk of Covid-19 spread via contact. Dozens of schools signed up for the system. However, North Ayrshire Council suspended the use of the technology at several schools. Parents and data ethics showed concerns over the use of technology where privacy is not fully considered.
According to The Guardian, Prof Sandra Watcher, a data ethics expert at the Oxford Internet Instituted believed it’s time-saving. But the question is ‘’ is that worth having a database of Children’s faces somewhere?’’
Meanwhile, author of Technology ethics, Stephanie Hare believes it‘’ disproportionate’’ to use Children’s biometric data for Lunch queues. ‘’ You’re normalizing Children understanding their bodies as something they use to transact. That’s how you condition an entire society to use facial recognition.’’ She said.
Privacy Concerns
Though, technology eases our lives to a greater extend. Such as easy payment for buses and access to universities, and medical prescriptions. Experts believe that biometric data systems are not only flawed in some cases, but also increasingly entering our lives under the radar. Meanwhile, the public has very limited knowledge and understanding of biometric technology.
Facial recognition software is also believed to be less accurate with people of color and people. Experts also say on the internet everything is hackable which makes it less secure. Therefore, the idea is to develop something that provides security.
