NCJ Number
205315
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 52 Issue: 3 Dated: March 2004 Pages: 26-27
Date Published
March 2004
Length
2 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the challenges of facial recognition software.
Abstract
Facial recognition software has received a lot of attention since the terrorist attacks in 2001. Unfortunately, the companies marketing the technology are making unjustifiable claims about the ability of the technology. Facial recognition software reduces the human face to a mathematical equation in order to recognize the face and then compare it to the faces in its database. Two main problems are discussed. First, if the face is not photographed at the proper angle, the software may not recognize the face and second, if the database of faces is very large, the process could take an inordinate amount of time. Two commercial facial recognition systems were tested at Logan International Airport in Boston over a 3-month period. Participants were 40 Logan employees who had their faces scanned into the facial recognition databases. The systems monitored cameras at two security checkpoints routinely used by the employees. The systems correctly identified employees 153 times, but failed to recognize enrolled faces 96 times. The 39 percent failure rate is considered too high to be relied on for security purposes. Another problem with facial recognition systems is that they have been fooled by holding photographs of enrolled faces. Finally, public policy issues concerning personal privacy and government monitoring of citizens plagues this technology. In conclusion, there may be police uses for facial recognition software; the key is knowing the limitations of the technology.