Congress to Target Facial Recognition?

Congress has begun questioning the security and privacy implications of the growing use of facial recognition technology, even within government agencies.

With the FBI activating its new facial recognition apps and programs in 2012, some members of Congress are turning their attention back to privacy concerns. Sen. Jay Rockefeller recently requested a report from the FTC on the security implications of facial recognition technology, specifically, how it will affect online privacy.

Meanwhile, the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee is considering privacy legislation to help safeguard the new technology. However, those who question its effectiveness have a whole host of concerns, including the use of special protection on or by young people under the age of 13. The FTC report is due by February 8, 2012, meaning next year will be an interesting one.