UK to deploy facial recognition in biggest-ever immigration crackdown
Summary
The UK Home Office is preparing to expand live facial recognition use by immigration enforcement, including at transport hubs and selected public events. Published documents describe possible watchlists for people accused of civil immigration breaches as well as criminal offenses; the Home Office says it is considering further trials.Key Facts
- The Home Office guidance and data protection assessment were published in October.
- The documents say cameras could be used to find people sought for removal, people who may have re-entered the UK unlawfully, and people linked to immigration-related crimes.
- Possible watchlist criteria include visa overstays and entry or stay without permission, which the documents describe as civil matters.
- The programme has moved into a formal delivery phase, according to the documents.
- Immigration enforcement ran three facial recognition trials at Holyhead port between November and February, focused on people arriving from Ireland who were subject to deportation orders or warrants for immigration-related crimes.
- The guidance says people under 18 will not be placed on watchlists.
- The Home Office said it is considering further trials and exploring the technology’s potential benefits and implications.
- Campaigners criticized the plans, citing concerns about surveillance and the risk of facial recognition misidentifying people of colour.
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