Facial Recognition Coming to Europe, Terms and Conditions Apply

  • EU considers enforcing audits of tech under new rules
  • ‘Anonymity in public spaces will cease to exist’ if unchecked
Information alerting passengers of facial recognition technology in operation at Berlin Suedkreuz station.Photographer: Steffi Loos/Getty Images
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The European Union has accepted there is no escape from facial recognition, but is seeking to ensure any roll-out that includes U.S. 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.