ALT Facial Recognition Technology (FRT) does not operate in a legal vacuum. It is covered by data protection law, which requires any use of personal data, including biometric data, to be lawful, fair and proportionate. When used by the police, FRT must be deployed in a way that respects people’s rights and freedoms, with appropriate safeguards in place. "FRT is a priority for the ICO due to its potential benefits and risks. We play an important role ensuring police are compliant with data protection law and that people’s rights are protected, including by providing clear guidance on the use of FRT and undertaking regular audits of police forces, so that the public can have confidence in how the technology is used. We have recently concluded our audit of South Wales Police and Gwent Police and will be sharing our findings shortly.”

ALT A young man - overlaid are images of icons, social media posts, health information shopping icons and money to represent the information these tools pick up.

ALT A woman on her phone - overlaid are images of icons, social media posts, health information shopping icons and money to represent the information these tools pick up.

ALT A group of smiling people at a table in a light-filled office. The focus is on one woman in glasses who is smiling. The text reads: "Interim Chief Executive Officer."

ALT Information Commissioner, John Edwards said: “My message to water companies is simple – put transparency first. “You have a role to play in sustaining as well as increasing public confidence and ensuring that openness is the default position for your organisation.”