Biometrics & AI: Transforming Surveillance and Policing

"The future of surveillance is no longer just about CCTV cameras. In fact, the concept of CCTV as we know it is rapidly becoming obsolete. With the advent of biometrics and AI-powered devices, the nature of surveillance has changed dramatically.

Historically, research on the impact of CCTV on crime has yielded mixed results. However, most of these studies were conducted when cameras were simply filming devices. Modern surveillance devices are now networked computers that can capture images, recognize faces, and even analyze behavior. They are no longer just passive observers but active participants in the surveillance process.

The use of facial recognition systems, for instance, has been shown to significantly reduce incidents of assault, abuse, and harassment in retail environments. It is reasonable to assume that similar technology used by law enforcement agencies will have a positive impact on crime and criminality.

The relationship between citizens and the state has also shifted. With the proliferation of personal devices such as smartphones, doorbells, and dashcams, citizens are now contributing to the surveillance effort. The police response to incidents now often involves a call for citizens to share images and footage. This has created a new dynamic where policing relies on the aggregated surveillance capability of communities.

However, this raises questions about data sharing, trust, and regulation. Should citizens be required to share data from their personal devices? How will this be regulated? Some countries have laws that compel citizens to share data, but this raises concerns about privacy and security.

For a government seeking to regulate this new public space reality, focusing solely on CCTV cameras is no longer sufficient. The future of policing will depend on the effective use of biometrics and AI-powered devices, as well as the trust and cooperation of citizens.

About Facewatch  Facewatch is a non-profit organization that aims to promote the responsible use of facial recognition technology. Our mission is to educate the public about the benefits and risks of facial recognition and to advocate for its ethical use.

   CENTRIC (Centre for Excellence in Terrorism, Resilience, Intelligence & Organised Crime Research) is a leading research center that focuses on the intersection of technology and national security. Professor Fraser Sampson is a leading expert in biometrics and surveillance and serves as a non-executive director at Facewatch."

"Q: What is the difference between CCTV and modern surveillance devices?

A: Modern surveillance devices are networked computers that can capture images, recognize faces, and analyze behavior, whereas CCTV cameras were simply filming devices.

Q: How has the relationship between citizens and the state changed in terms of surveillance?

A: Citizens are now contributing to the surveillance effort through personal devices such as smartphones, doorbells, and dashcams, and policing relies on the aggregated surveillance capability of communities.

Q: Should citizens be required to share data from their personal devices?

A: This is a complex issue that raises concerns about privacy, security, and trust. Governments must carefully consider regulations and ensure that citizens' rights are protected.

Q: What is the role of biometrics in modern policing?

A: Biometrics, such as facial recognition, play a crucial role in modern policing, enabling law enforcement agencies to identify and track individuals more effectively.

Q: How can we ensure the responsible use of facial recognition technology?

A: Education, advocacy, and regulation are essential to ensuring the responsible use of facial recognition technology. Organizations like Facewatch promote the ethical use of facial recognition and advocate for transparency and accountability."