Italy outlaws facial recognition technology, except to fight crime
Italy prohibited the use of facial recognition and ‘smart glasses’ as its Data Protection Agency issued a rebuke to two municipalities experimenting with the technologies, Reuters reports
It is noted that facial recognition systems using biometric data will not be allowed until a specific law is adopted, or at least until the end of next year.
The exception is when such technologies play a role in forensic investigations or the fight against crime.
Under European Union and Italian law, the processing of personal data by public bodies using video devices is generally allowed on public interest grounds and when linked to the activity of public authorities.
However, municipalities that want to use such technologies must enter into urban security agreements with central government representatives.
Moreover, the Italian privacy watchdog also targeted the Tuscan city of Arezzo, where local police were due to be equipped with infrared super glasses that can recognise car number plates.
