Privacy fears as Indian city readies facial recognition to spot harassed women


Women wearing masks as a precaution against the coronavirus cross a road in Kolkata, India. Facial recognition technology is being increasingly deployed in airports, railway stations and cafes across India, with plans for nationwide systems to modernise the police force and its information gathering and criminal identification processes. — AP

A plan to monitor women’s expressions with facial recognition technology to prevent street harassment in a north Indian city, will lead to intrusive policing and privacy violations, digital rights experts warned on Jan 22.

In Lucknow, about 500 kilometres (310 miles) from the nation’s capital New Delhi, police identified some 200 harassment hotspots that women visit often and where most complaints are reported, said police commissioner D.K. Thakur.

The Star Christmas Special Promo: Save 35% OFF Yearly. T&C applies.

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 8.02/month

Billed as RM 96.20 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Tech News

How much water does AI actually use? Depends on whom you ask
South Korea's consumer agency to order SK Telecom to compensate 58 hacking victims
Opinion: What happens to online discussion forums when AI is the first place people turn?
A Reddit post led to a breakthrough in the Brown shooting investigation
Review: For disappointed 'Civ' fans, 'Anno 117' will scratch that strategy itch
Explainer-What is so special about TikTok's algorithm?
Robotics pioneer says the field has lost its way
Google warns staff with US visas against international travel due to embassy delays, Business Insider says
Sleep cots and graham crackers at Elon Musk’s child care program
Three tips to give your kids the best holiday present you can get – a healthier relationship with screens

Others Also Read