Biometric Data: The New Frontiers of Authorised Invasion of Privacy and Intimacy

Biometric data is currently the focus of public attention. The public and regulators are taking a very close look at biometric technologies. From a political and human rights perspective, facial recognition technologies can pose dangers to privacy, the right to free movement, to assemble, and to protest. From an ethical standpoint, several technology providers have decided to limit or discontinue their facial recognition programmes. However, biometric data can be used for many useful purposes, for example for security in airports, train stations, schools and in sensitive locations. The protection of personal data is key on this matter.