Conferences and other in-person events increasingly use facial recognition for attendees. Often, there is a lack of necessary care regarding data protection risks. Risk must also be recognized by everyone attending such events.
The collection of biometric data has become increasingly important in various sectors over recent years, from law enforcement to access control. Biometric data are pieces of information collected from an individual based on physical or behavioral traits, such as facial recognition, fingerprints, iris scans, or voice patterns. While the technology offers many benefits, there are also several risks that must not be ignored.
A significant risk factor is the technology’s ability to collect and store data. Since biometric data are extremely personal and unique, they can lead to identity theft or abuse if they fall into the wrong hands. In recent years, there have been numerous reports of data leaks where biometric data were stolen, increasing the likelihood of identity fraud and misuse. Some experts also warn of the possibility that biometric data could be collected in databases controlled by governments or other organizations and potentially abused for surveillance purposes.
MWC Organizer Fined for Biometric ID Checks – GDPR Compliance
Clearview AI, a company specializing in biometric facial recognition software, has been fined by US authorities. The company had insufficient security measures to protect the biometric data they collected. The fine follows the illegal acquisition of data, where Clearview AI collected data from Facebook and other websites without permission. The company is known for developing technology that assists law enforcement agencies in identifying criminals.
The fine highlights the risks of biometric data collection and the protection of privacy. Biometric data based on physical or behavioral traits, such as fingerprints or facial recognition, can be very sensitive and lead to identity theft. It is therefore important for companies and organizations collecting biometric data to improve their security measures and be transparent about their data collection to protect users’ privacy.
Another issue with the collection of biometric data is its accuracy. The technology is prone to errors and false alarms, which can lead to unfair arrests or biases. An example of this is facial recognition technology, which fails more often with darker-skinned individuals. This can lead to racial profiling and affect law enforcement.
Furthermore, the collection of biometric data can also lead to privacy violations. When biometric data is collected, it can easily be misused to track or monitor people’s behavior. This could lead to unwanted surveillance and infringe on citizens’ fundamental rights.
Overall, the collection of biometric data holds both advantages and disadvantages. While the technology can help combat crime and regulate access to certain areas, the risks must be carefully weighed. The use of biometric data should be transparent and protect people’s privacy. Only then can the technology be used safely and responsibly.
We recommend our readers follow the best practices outlined below:
#PRVYCYTIPS
- Do not use the fingerprint sensor on your phone or laptop. Although the uniqueness of your fingerprint is a very secure way to ensure only you can unlock your devices, each unlocking reveals information about you and your behavior. When and how often you unlock your device. Where you are at that moment (you often use available WiFi without obscuring your location).
- Go to the counter at passport control. If you think the automated passport controls are faster, that’s true, but they’re also more comprehensive in data collection. At the counter, photos are often not taken (depending on the country), whereas the automated passport control takes photos and adds them to your digital ID.