Biometric cams at US trap imposter
Critics have raised concerns about the accuracy of such systems and whether they compromise individuals’ privacy. This is the first such detection at an airport using facial biometrics, the portal reported, quoting a Customs and Border Protection release.
Washington, Aug. 25: Biometric cameras at Washington Dulles International Airport’s identified a man who allegedly attempted to use someone else’s passport to enter the US.
The newly introduced facial recognition programme at A D. C. area airport, after three days of its installation, caught an alleged imposter trying to enter the country on a false passport, according to Nextgov website.
This is the first such detection at an airport using facial biometrics, the portal reported, quoting a Customs and Border Protection release.
The new system simplifies the arrival process for travellers enabling them to move through screening more quickly, according to The Washington Post. Law enforcement told the Post that such systems can help them identify and capture criminals more quickly. However, critics have raised concerns about the accuracy of such systems and whether they compromise individuals’ privacy.
CBP officials at the airport Wednesday said the facial biometric programme identified a 26- yearold Congolese man attempting to enter the US using a French passport, according to Nextgov website.
The man, travelling from Sao Paulo, Brazil on Tuesday, went through the new entry system at Dulles Airport, which directs travellers to a CBP officer for document inspection. While the documents are being scanned, a biometric camera analyses the passenger’s face and compares it against records associated with the passport or other travel documents.
In this instance, the system flagged the man as a mismatch for the passport on record and he was removed for additional screening. At that time, officers said he became “visibly nervous” and an authentic ID card showing he was a citizen of the Republic of Congo was found in his shoe, according to Nextgov. Officials said CBP is withholding the man’s name as investigation is underway.