THE UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has called for enhanced data governance among police forces using live facial recognition (LFR) technology. Deputy Commissioner Emily Keaney highlighted that many forces are implementing LFR without prior experience, which raises concerns about risks such as wrongful accusations due to false matches. The ICO has audited various police forces, revealing inconsistencies in data protection compliance.
Recommendations include stronger oversight, accurate record-keeping, sourcing images appropriately, and ensuring the accuracy of facial recognition systems to minimize biases. These measures are crucial for maintaining public trust in facial recognition as a policing tool, especially given existing biases highlighted in earlier reports.