UK’s data protection authority launches investigations over the use of facial recognition software at King’s Cross

The UK’ Information Commissioner’s Office has launched an investigation into the use of facial recognition in King’s Cross area in London. The authority indicated being deeply concerned about the growing use of facial recognition technology in public spaces, and seeking detailed information about how it is used. According to the Guardian, ICO’s announcement came two days ago the mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, wrote to the development’s owner demanding to know whether the company believed its use of facial recognition software in its CCTV systems was legal. The developers includes a consortium of Argent, a property developer, Hermes Investment Management, on behalf of BT Pensioners, and AustralianSuper, an Australian pension scheme. According to IAPP, the consortium said the facial-recognition tech has been implemented “in the interest of public safety and to ensure that everyone who visits has the best possible experience.