At FacePhi we define our technology as “ethical biometrics” biometric technology that cares about how it is used. that’s why we only perform verification and identification with the user’s consent. We know that the client has the right to know that their data is being processed and we want them to know how it is done.
Identity verification involves comparing two pieces of data, two faces, two fingerprints, or two voices which belong to the same individual. For example, their face, comparing it against the face that appears on their DNI, or their voice against a previous recording, in this way we can verify their identity. We confirm that they are who they say they are.
Identification is comparing the information of one individual against that of many others, and the lists are usually very large. In this case we are identifying them alongside others. This is where the dilemma lies: Is it with consent or without consent?
As we mentioned before, at FacePhi all processes that are carried out with the user’s data will always be consented, or they will not be undertaken. But identification without consent is a reality. Let’s take video surveillance as an example, which uses biometric technology to identify without the individual in question being aware of what is happening. At FacePhi we will never carry out mass identity verification.
In April 2021, the EU Regulation on Artificial Intelligence was drafted to ensure that AI systems are safe and in line with fundamental rights and Union values. It was a very necessary measure, and befitting the technological advances of the time.
With the same objective, at FacePhi we seek to ensure that the user is fully informed, so that they can decide whether or not they want to use this biometric technology. In our case, all our developments are created under the principle of ‘ethical biometrics’, which means that they are designed exclusively for consented identity verification. We seek to guarantee their safety, with full respect for the right to privacy, as well as the current legislation regarding data protection in each country. For us, this privacy for data and the will of the user is totally non-negotiable.
Biometrics must guarantee compliance with the main regulations that regulate the sector, with the aim that all the information obtained from the user’s consent is used to protect the most valuable thing: Their digital identity.
