Facepalm Recognition: Government Expands Controversial Surveillance Amid Privacy Uproar
Rights groups are fuming over the government’s expansion of police use of live facial recognition technology, citing a lack of legislative safeguards. Big Brother Watch called it a “surveillance state” expansion, while Privacy International uncovered secretive database searches. A facial recognition scandal in the making? Stay tuned for the legal fireworks!
Hot Take:
Looks like the UK government is taking the “face” in “face the music” quite literally, as they roll out more facial recognition vans than a mobile disco. But instead of grooving to the beat, rights groups are crying foul over this expansion, calling it a privacy invasion party without a bouncer to check IDs. It’s a dance-off between surveillance and civil liberties, and the rhythm is getting contentious!
Key Points:
– The UK government is expanding the use of live facial recognition (LFR) with 10 new vans across seven police forces.
– Privacy groups are alarmed, citing a lack of legislative safeguards and expanded surveillance.
– The government claims LFR has led to significant arrests, including those of registered sex offenders.
– A consultation for a new legal framework is planned, but critics want safeguards now.
– Privacy International reveals secret use of facial recognition on passport and immigration databases.