Maine Could Have Strongest Data Privacy Law in Nation if Bill Passes
(Scoop News Group, Feb 07, 2024)
The legislation, also known as the Data Privacy and Protection Act, was introduced last year after a competing data privacy bill was proposed in Maine. Privacy advocates say the private sector’s support of the competing bill is because it’s modeled after ineffective “comprehensive” data privacy laws that have been enacted in other states.
D.C. Unveils New Unemployment Insurance and Identity Verification System
(DCist, Feb 07, 2024)
The D.C. Department of Employment Services (DOES) has introduced a new website to streamline the filing process for unemployment benefits to make the process more efficient and combat fraud. The system requires claimants to use the online identity verification platform, ID.me, which uses facial recognition software to verify identities. However, there are concerns that the facial recognition software may exhibit racial bias and fail to recognize people of color, as highlighted in a United Nations report and raised by the U.S. Labor Department inspector general.
When it Comes to Facial Recognition, There is No Such Thing as a Magic Number
(American Civil Liberties Union, Feb 07, 2024)
Companies and legislators are using misleading test scores to justify the expansion of facial recognition into our communities. That flawed approach understates the threat this dangerous technology poses to civil rights.
[Podcast] Use of Facial Recognition in Supermarkets
(Newstalk ZB, Feb 08, 2024)
Foodstuff's introduction of facial recognition technology —with the hope of reducing repeat criminal offenders— has the Privacy Commissioner concerned. The grocery chain is trialling facial scanning in its North Island stores across the next six months. Commissioner Michael Webster told Kerre Woodham that facial recognition isn't a proven tool to reduce harmful behaviour in supermarkets. He says it could be even riskier, as the technology could provide people with a false sense of security.
The End of Windows Hello, or a New Biometric Dawn? — Microsoft Unveils a New Facial Recognition Security System
(TechRadar, Feb 07, 2024)
"As fraud skyrockets for businesses and consumers, and fraud tactics become increasingly complex—especially with advancements in generative AI—identity verification has never been more important," Ankur Patel, Head of Product for Microsoft Entra Verified ID noted in a blog post announcing the news.
