Privacy In Focus: BIPA’s Current Landscape and the Crucial Role of Statutory Exemptions
(JD Supra, Feb 12, 2024)
rays of hope emerged when the same court issued two favorable decisions, one affirming union preemption, and another concerning medical exemptions under BIPA. These welcomed developments provided a reprieve for businesses contending with the longstanding challenges posed by the statute. As we navigate the complexities of BIPA, it becomes crucial for businesses to recognize and consider the various exemptions embedded within the legislation—many of which have proven effective in legal defenses over the past few years. Aside from analyzing compliance with and exposure under BIPA, Illinois businesses should be mindful of the everchanging landscape of the statute as lawsuits continue to progress. Businesses falling short of compliance standards should thoroughly examine whether any applicable BIPA exemptions may provide relief.
Breaking Barriers with Albert Karaziwan's Innovation and Philanthropy in Identification
(SF Weekly, Feb 12, 2024)
Noted for his passion, professionalism, and pursuit of excellence, Karaziwan assumes the role of founder and CEO at Semlex. Semlex seeks to be at the forefront as a biometric identification systems company that has spearheaded the adoption of biometrics in Africa and elsewhere.
The UK Government is Looking to Ditch Biometric Immigration Cards and Replace Them with Digital E-Visas
(TechRadar, Feb 12, 2024)
The UK government is looking to move its immigration system closer to the Australian model with the adoption of e-Visas. The phasing out of Biometric Residence Permits (BRP) and Biometric Residence Cards (BRC) is expected to be fully complete by December 31 2024. The adoption of e-Visas will remove the need for physical documents to prove immigration status, as the fully digital documents can be accessed and verified securely online.
London Mayor Calls for Solution to Border Check Delays for Eurostar Passengers
(Biometric Update, Feb 12, 2024)
Mayor Sadiq Khan called on Britain’s government not to wash its hands of issues around post-Brexit red tape surrounding the introduction of the Entry/Exit System (EES). The border control system requires residents of countries outside the EU and Schengen area, including the UK, to register facial and fingerprint biometrics. Mayor Khan’s major concern is the effect of potential border delays on London’s £76 billion (US$95.8 billion) tourism industry. The new EES biometric checks are expected to come into operation in October which also marks the start of the “golden quarter” tourism season leading up to Christmas.
Addressing the Vulnerabilities of Smart Commercial Buildings
(Forbes, Feb 12, 2024)
Monitoring and recording activities around and within the buildings can be attained using internet protocol (IP) cameras, video analytics, like object tracking and facial recognition and CCTV (closed-circuit television) systems. Smart building solutions accumulate a huge amount of data (e.g., visitors, occupants, building operations, etc.). Here, data privacy and confidentiality are important to prevent potential misuse and unauthorized access. Undoubtedly, smart commercial buildings include the immense use of interconnected devices, networks and sensors. This makes them prone to cyberattacks, as data breaches, cyber threats and unauthorized access may push sensitive information into danger, resulting in financial losses and disrupting operations.
