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Biometric Surveillance
Privacy
Use of biometric identifiers at scale for identification, verification, or tracking across contexts.
Definition
Biometric surveillance deploys systems (cameras, sensors) to capture biometric signals and match them against databases or templates. Risks include false positives, chilling effects, and cross-context tracking.
In plain English
Use of biometric identifiers at scale for identification, verification, or tracking across contexts.
Why this matters
Why it matters: Biometric identifiers are persistent; misuse or breaches can have long-term privacy consequences and can enable mass tracking without meaningful consent.
Example
Example: A city deploys facial recognition on CCTV; governance requires strict lawful basis, audits, transparency, and opt-out mechanisms where possible.