PCC launches Live Facial Recognition survey
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner has launched a survey, asking residents for their views on Live Facial Recognition (LFR) technology.
The survey is asking members of the public who live in Dorset what they think about the technology ahead of its use in Dorset for the first time this summer.
LFR vans can be used to detect crime, deter and find wanted criminals and protect people from harm. The technology compares a live camera feed against a secure, pre-determined watchlist which includes wanted people like sex offenders and perpetrators of domestic abuse.
It analyses key facial features, comparing the live image against known faces in a database, generating possible matches. Officers make the final decision as to whether an individual is approached, with the technology in place to recommend who should be approached and why.
When deployed, LFR vans will be clearly signposted, with upcoming locations publicised on the Dorset Police website and social media channels in advance.
Images captured of people who are not on the pre-determined watchlist are instantly deleted forever from the system.
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: “While I support the use of new technology which will help Dorset Police in the detection and apprehension of known offenders, a key part of my role as Dorset’s PCC is to ensure the use of technology such as LFR is properly and robustly scrutinised. I want to be very clear with the people of Dorset that this technology will be subject to strict safeguards to ensure fairness, transparency and privacy.
“As your voice in policing, I believe we should support measures which can make us safer but there may also be concerns regarding use of new technology and I want to hear from Dorset residents to help Dorset Police understand the public’s views.
“You can take part in the consultation here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LFRsurvey
“Public confidence, transparency, and accountability are central to effective policing, and your feedback plays an important role in shaping how Dorset Police continue to serve our communities. Thank you for your help in keeping Dorset one of the safest places in the country.”
The survey is open now and will close on May 14. For more information, visit Live Facial Recognition | Dorset Police