The world of security technology has witnessed many changes over the last few years. From wired video surveillance and passcodes, we have moved on to wireless cameras and facial recognition.
In fact, it can be said that in this age of wearable tech and multi-factor authentication, the human face has become the digital ID that authenticates the person. It does sound exciting but before implementing it in your office or highly private space, it is important to know how facial recognition technology works and what precautions are to be taken.
The Advancing Technology
Facial recognition technology was in experimental stages in the 1960s. However, today, with the advancement of science and technology the security technology is automatic and supported by sophisticated computer power.
Half a century ago it would have been difficult to imagine that the experiment would be so omnipresent and significant from today’s security point of view. Presently, it is used by security professionals as well as the government to protect sensitive information. In fact, the technology also has consumer benefit as it can help to password-protect a device.
Current Application
It is easy to say that the technology behind facial recognition is just getting started and still has miles to go before it reaches its peak.
Implemented by Software Developing Giants
Today, software giants like Microsoft are using facial-recognition software as a way to authenticate people in Windows 10 while Apple is reportedly finding ways for its users to share photos with tagged friends automatically.
Social Platforms
On the other hand, social networking users have already had a brush with the technology when they were able to tag friends on social networking platforms like Facebook and Google.
In Public Places
Recent years have seen a widespread predominance of facial recognition at airports and other public areas.
Also, there have been reports that professors in China have created a facial recognition ATM–the world’s first.
Still Evolving To Be Foolproof in Future
Security technologies are on an inevitable rise, and facial recognition systems seem to be an integral part of the technology. However, there are various challenges that the world faces before we can be sure about the technology. As per a BBC report on London riots in 2011, UK police could only identify one person from 4,000 images taken at the time.
Besides this, there have been questions on privacy and data transparency while using the security technology.
However, among these concerns one thing is understandable – the facial recognition feature enhances the security level, which is highly critical in confidential matters.
Wrapping Up
Whatever you think of the facial recognition technology, one thing is clear – this security technology is here to stay. If you happen to consider installing it at your facility, make sure you understand how it functions and what you stand to gain from it.