In an absolutely startling revelation, it has come to light that the FBI has conducted over 60,000 face recognition searches using external software, yet a mere 5% of their agents have undergone proper training! This alarming fact, uncovered in a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report, raises major red flags about privacy and civil liberties.
The lack of training is not just a minor oversight but a critical lapse, especially in light of wrongful arrests like those of Robert Williams and Alonzo Sawyer due to misidentification. How can such powerful technology be used so extensively with minimal understanding of its implications?
The GAO report scrutinizes the use of commercial tools like Clearview AI and Thorn in thousands of FBI searches. What's even more concerning is that despite the Department of Justice's (DOJ) intention to implement a civil rights policy for face recognition, there's been no action taken to date. This inaction is deeply troubling.
We must urgently address the need for comprehensive training, policy development, and a thorough examination of how this technology impacts civil liberties. The current situation is not just a matter of concern; it's a shocking wake-up call.
For a more in-depth look at this critical issue, read the full article here.
