When we think about Live Facial Recognition (LFR) technology, we often focus on its potential — enhancing public safety, streamlining law enforcement operations, and locating vulnerable individuals. But as with any tool of power, trust is the critical factor. Without trust, even the most advanced systems can undermine the very safety and equity they claim to protect.
The recent trials of LFR by Hampshire Constabulary have reignited public discourse around surveillance, privacy, and accountability. As we reflect on these developments, it’s vital to consider how we can align the deployment of these technologies with ethical principles, ensuring they serve, not exploit, our communities.
Independent Oversight: Beyond “Marking Their Own Homework”
One of the most urgent actions required is independent oversight. It’s not enough for the police to self-monitor their use of LFR technology. Transparency demands a third-party body to assess deployment, report false positives, and ensure compliance with ethical standards.
As alluded to in my previous post Facial Recognition: A Reflection of Human Instincts and the Ethics of AI, an independent study was conducted by The National Physical Laboratory to test the accuracy and equitability of facial recognition in an operational policing environment. Its reassuring to see equitability as an upfront consideration.
Independent oversight ensures that mistakes are acknowledged, biases are corrected, and public trust is not taken for granted. It transforms accountability from an internal process into a societal contract.
Inclusivity and Community Involvement
Trust isn’t imposed from above; it’s earned through meaningful engagement with the people being served. To build trust in LFR, communities must have a voice in how these technologies are developed and deployed.
Citizen Panels: Community-led panels can provide insights into public concerns, ensuring decisions around LFR are informed by those affected by its implementation.
Aligning Values: The goals and values of the police must reflect those of the communities they serve. Without alignment, any deployment risks alienating the very people it seeks to protect.
The mistrust of surveillance technologies, highlighted by organizations like Big Brother Watch, underscores the need for inclusivity. By involving communities in the process, we move closer to a model of policing that is transparent, equitable, and just.
The debates have started and equitability concerns such as racial bias, accuracy and lack of dedicated legislation are hot topics. But to me its not clear how inclusive the discussions will be, and I'm sure there are opportunities to harness technology to broaden the engagement.
Transparency in Data: Open Accountability
Another seemingly simple way to build trust is to share data openly. The public deserves access to information about:
False positives,
Arrests resulting from LFR use,
And overall system performance.
Releasing this data in near real-time would reflect a commitment to transparency and help counter the narrative of secrecy that often surrounds surveillance technologies. It also invites collaboration — allowing independent analysts, technologists, and the public to participate in discussions about what works and what doesn’t.
The Danger of Inaction
The consequences of ignoring these steps are significant and its reassuring to see efforts being made. Surveillance without trust risks becoming what Big Brother Watch has called “dangerously authoritarian.” When people feel watched without accountability or fairness, societal divisions deepen, and the foundational principles of democracy — liberty, equity, and justice — are eroded.
But there’s an opportunity here. With transparency, inclusivity, and oversight, LFR can be a tool that enhances public safety without compromising civil liberties. This requires deliberate action and a willingness to involve diverse voices in the conversation — and I for one am interested in how we might harness people and technology to support these fundamentals.
Space to Wundr
The rollout of technologies like LFR is a defining moment for society. It challenges us to ask:
How do we balance innovation with humanity?
At Wundr Space, we believe that ethical technology starts with openness and collaboration. If you’re passionate about these issues — whether you’re in tech, law enforcement, policy, or community advocacy — we’d love to hear from you. Together, we can shape a future where technology doesn’t just monitor us but serves us.
💬 What actions do you think are most critical to ensuring LFR is deployed ethically? Let’s talk.
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