Facial recognition coming to Europe, terms and conditions apply

A security CCTV camera by the Olympic Stadium at the Olympic Park in London. The UK is deploying facial recognition surveillance cameras in London, a step that human-rights groups have called 'dangerous and sinister'. — AP

The European Union has accepted there is no escape from facial recognition, but is seeking to ensure any roll-out that includes US and Chinese players will abide by European values like strict personal privacy.

Facial recognition has emerged as a hot-button issue as the EU prepares to outline its plans to regulate artificial intelligence next month. Privacy advocates are urging legislation to prevent abuses, while law enforcement is warning against banning a tool that can make societies safer.