Facial Recognition is defined as “the ability of a computer to scan, store, and recognize human faces for use in identifying people.” This technology may seem overly advanced, or only able to exist in the likes of a Jason Bourne film, but it is only a step forward in the technological advancements of London. The Metropolitan police are implementing facial recognition and scanning into cameras to be used across the city. This technology will allow the police force to seemingly locate people of interest inside a database of those wanted for serious crimes. 

In an interview with CNN Business, Nick Ephgrave, the Metropolitan police Assistant Commissioner, said that “As a modern police force, I believe that we have a duty to use new technologies to keep people safe in London…”

When asking several students about their thoughts on the use of facial recognition technology, many had different stances on the subject. Ashley Phonthibsvads added her insightful response saying that, “I think it sounds smart, but it will also have its flaws as everything does in the world.” Maddy Moe, a senior suggested, “I think it will help to solve more crimes and find suspects, which would be a good thing overall.”

With the use of widespread facial recognition by police, there has also been apprehension about its applications. Aaron Michaels, a senior, said, “This technology has so many amazing applications, but it could be abused so easily. If it were highly monitored, it could be done justice.” Moira McKann also voiced, “I think it is helpful in the identifying of suspects, but I worry that it will infringe on privacy.”

Whether you do or do not condone the use of facial recognition by law enforcement, it is undoubtedly becoming more prevalent.