Hungary’s new amendments introduced biometric surveillance laws violating the EU AI Act, expanding facial recognition technology to minor infractions and peaceful protests. This has raised fears of a chilling effect on civil liberties, particularly among LGBTQAI+ groups. The EU must intervene to ensure compliance with fundamental rights and safeguard democratic principles. In Hungary, recent amendments…
Sassa is implementing mandatory biometric verification for clients without standard ID numbers starting May 5. This aims to enhance security and ensure accurate social grant payments, preventing fraud. Training for staff is already in progress to facilitate this change. In a significant move, the South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) is rolling out mandatory biometric…
Asda is starting a trial of facial recognition technology in five Greater Manchester stores to combat retail crime, particularly employee assaults. The system from FaiceTech will integrate with existing CCTV and maintain high data privacy standards. It aims to improve security and reduce incidents effectively. Asda, the well-known British supermarket chain, has launched a trial…
Biometric technologies, expanding beyond security into customer analysis and employee monitoring, are raising privacy concerns. The EU has established robust regulatory frameworks through GDPR and the new AI Act, targeting different uses of biometric data with varying risk classifications. Compliance challenges abound, particularly for smaller organizations, as they navigate overlapping obligations and operational demands. Biometric…
Starting May 5, SASSA requires biometric testing for social grant beneficiaries using alternative ID forms. This aims to improve security and efficiency. Vulnerabilities and fraud issues have prompted these changes, along with training for staff to oversee the biometric process effectively. Starting May 5, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) will require biometric testing…
The Scottish Biometrics Commissioner has initiated a consultation on police Live Facial Recognition use to assess public opinion amid privacy concerns. The findings will guide Police Scotland’s resource allocation toward LFR, if pursued. Criticisms arise around trust and surveillance, with three specific use cases outlined, all under a currently inadequate legal framework. The Scottish Biometrics…
The EU AI Act is the first comprehensive legislation on artificial intelligence, categorizing AI systems by risk and establishing compliance requirements to ensure user safety and foster innovation. It mandates transparency, human oversight, and supports AI start-ups, with a timeline for compliance set to roll out over the next two years. The EU AI Act…
The SSA’s new identity verification measures effective April 14 aim to reduce fraud but may hinder access for vulnerable populations. Retirees and survivors will be primarily affected, as beneficiaries on disability or SSI are exempt for now. SSA intends to enhance in-person verification through USPS and considers video options, though technical challenges and political implications…
Europol warns of rising biometric threats as criminals exploit facial recognition and fingerprint systems, emphasizing the irreversible nature of biometric credentials. A new report calls for enhanced collaboration among law enforcement and interdisciplinary experts to counter these evolving threats. Europol’s Innovation Lab is pivotal in developing adaptive strategies against these challenges. Europol has issued a…
Europol’s new report discusses the risks associated with biometric recognition technology, including its potential for criminal exploitation. While these systems offer convenience over traditional passwords, they are not foolproof and can be tricked. Law enforcement must collaborate with experts to identify and address vulnerabilities, ensuring the safety of citizens. The Europol Innovation Lab plays a…
