UK to use facial recognition AI to stop adult migrants posing as children

UK to use facial recognition AI to stop adult migrants posing as children

The UK government has revealed plans to utilize AI technology for the purpose of verifying the ages of migrants arriving in the country in order to prevent adults from falsely claiming to be children. A report conducted by the government’s independent immigration inspector identified cases where adult migrants were categorized as children, as well as cases where child migrants were inaccurately identified as adults. Last year, the asylum system saw 56% of migrants claiming to be children either assessed as adults or later admitting they were actually over 18.

Incorporating existing technology initially developed for online retailers selling age-restricted items, the government aims to implement facial recognition technology to aid in determining the age of migrants. Border Security and Asylum Minster Angela Eagle highlighted the AI’s ability to generate accurate age estimates based on facial images. This approach is viewed as a potentially swift and straightforward method for assessing age when faced with challenges in accurately determining the age of migrants.

The utilization of AI facial recognition technology is set to undergo a trial period before a planned full-scale implementation in 2026. The government intends to launch a tender for technology providers in August, with the objective of partnering with companies that have expertise in age verification technology. Similar technologies are already in use in the private sector for age verification purposes, such as in banking and online retail industries.

Previously, the Conservative government introduced a scheme that involved examining the bones and teeth of migrants to ascertain their age; however, Labour ministers have expressed skepticism about this approach. The inspection report emphasized the risks associated with incorrectly identifying a child as an adult or vice versa, underscoring the importance of implementing an accurate and reliable age verification system to ensure the safety and well-being of migrants. Despite the government accepting all recommendations put forth by the independent immigration inspector, concerns persist regarding the ethical considerations and effectiveness of deploying AI tools in age verification processes

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