Hong Kong Police to Use AI Facial Recognition Technology with Data Retention Limits

The Hong Kong police plan to utilize AI facial recognition technology, asserting that it will aid in faster tracking of targets, while stating that the technology's use will be authorized by an inspector or higher, and data will be retained for a maximum of 180 days.

Assembled News DeskNovember 5, 20261 min read

AI illustration based on reference photographs; not an event photograph. Abstract illustration of an AI processing unit within a modern, dimly lit space, symbolizing facial recognition technology. — AI-generated illustration

According to the South China Morning Post, the police force stated that the implementation of facial recognition technology, which is widely employed by law enforcement agencies globally, would be used while respecting the privacy rights of residents. The force indicated that the use of this technology would necessitate authorization from an inspector or a higher-ranking official. Furthermore, the police force specified that the data collected would be retained for a period not exceeding 180 days. Eric Leung Ming-leung, a senior superintendent within the force’s operations wing, commented that employing AI facial recognition would reduce the duration spent reviewing closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage when attempting to locate individuals who are targets.

Keep reading

More Technology

AI illustration based on reference photographs; not an event photograph. A rectangular wooden sign with a blue, frayed border displaying 'NO DATA CENTERS' in red and black lettering, set in an empty landscape.

Technology1d ago1 min

US Voter Backlash Against AI Infrastructure Projects Underscores Local Concerns Over Power and Water Use

According to the South China Morning Post, strong voter opposition during the US midterm elections toward AI infrastructure, such as data centers, suggests that framing domestic construction as essential for competing with China has not persuaded Americans, pointing to growing concerns regarding power bills, water consumption, and local community effects.

AI illustration based on reference photographs; not an event photograph. A row of large, glass-fronted commercial refrigeration units in a supermarket aisle, showing packaged goods inside.

Technology2d ago3 min

Cyber-attack Affecting European Supermarket Refrigeration Systems

A cyber-attack on Monday impacted supermarket fridges and freezers across Europe, affecting businesses in the UK's food supply chain and leading to spoiled food worth millions of euros. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is aware of some exploited vulnerabilities in the UK, while the NCSC's chief executive stated that adversaries could exploit these systems more easily using AI.

AI illustration based on reference photographs; not an event photograph. An abstract editorial illustration of a municipal setting with a closed wooden door and stacks of official documents, symbolizing political disagreement.

Technology3d ago4 min

Labour Withdrawals from Green Power-Sharing Agreements Over Zionism Policy

The Labour Party has withdrawn from power-sharing arrangements with the Green Party in 11 local councils following the national party's adoption of a policy defining Zionism as a form of racism. Labour Chair Bridget Phillipson stated that the policy crossed a line, leading to the end of coalitions in areas such as Sheffield, Warwick, and Lewes.