A recent report by the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights has found that facial recognition technology used in law enforcement investigations, airport security, and public housing surveillance disproportionately harms people of color and women. The report notes that the unregulated use of this technology poses significant risks to civil rights, especially for marginalized groups. Despite the lack of federal laws governing its use, at least 18 federal agencies have adopted facial recognition technology.
The report details how federal agencies such as the Department of Justice, Department of Homeland Security, and Department of Housing and Urban Development have quietly deployed facial recognition technology across the U.S., leading to potential civil rights infringements. The technology uses biometric software to map a person’s facial features from a photo and then tries to match the face to a database of images to identify someone. However, false matches are more likely for certain groups, including older adults, women, and people of color.
The report also highlights the FBI’s use of facial recognition technology and the potential for wrongful arrests, unwarranted surveillance, and discrimination. Additionally, the Department of Homeland Security has deployed facial recognition tools at airports, seaports, and border entry points. Public housing agencies have also used facial recognition technology, leading to evictions over minor violations.
The report calls for rigorous testing of facial recognition technology for fairness and recommends that any detected disparities across demographic groups be promptly addressed. It also suggests the development of a testing protocol for agencies to ensure the effectiveness, equity, and accuracy of facial recognition software. Ultimately, the report aims to inform lawmakers and policymakers about the issues surrounding facial recognition technology and advocate for the protection of civil rights and liberties for all Americans.
Photo credit
www.usatoday.com
