Let’s Face IT
Since Apple introduced Face ID for the iPhone back in 2017, facial recognition has quickly become part of everyday life. What began as a convenient way to unlock a phone has evolved into technology now used in retail, vehicles, and even workplace access.
Recently, I read that Sainsbury’s has piloted facial recognition in selected stores across London and Bath. The eight-week trial aimed to help identify repeat offenders and reduce shoplifting. While the initiative has drawn attention from privacy groups such as Big Brother Watch – who question whether it’s really necessary to scan your face just to buy a pint of milk – it marks another step in how this technology is being used in new ways.
Driving the technology forward
We’re also seeing similar developments in the automotive industry. Genesis, the luxury EV brand from Korea, has introduced facial recognition to unlock vehicles with a smile. Sony, Honda, and Ford are all exploring biometric-based access and driver identification. Some manufacturers even use attention-tracking cameras to ensure drivers remain focused on the road.
It’s fascinating technology, though not without its challenges. Accessories such as hats, scarves, sunglasses, and masks can confuse facial recognition algorithms – especially in places with cold winters or bright summers.
Data Security
And as with all forms of data collection, the key issue is how this data is stored, protected, and used responsibly.
Even if your business doesn’t directly use biometric data, you’re still handling sensitive information every day – customer details, supplier data, and financial records. These all hold real value to cybercriminals. Seemingly harmless information can become highly valuable when stolen or sold. This will be sensitive data and so it will be imperative to lock this down and guard with the utmost care.
That’s why we put so much focus on protecting the integrity of your data. We help businesses build robust defences to keep systems secure and operations running smoothly – because the reality is, cyberattacks aren’t just a “big business” problem.
If you’ve seen the recent reports of data breaches at Jaguar Land Rover or M&S and thought, “That could never happen to us,” then it might be time for a conversation with our team.
Keep Smiling
But let’s not take all the fun out of this amazing technology. Many of us already benefit from the ease and increased security that facial recognition brings – whether that’s logging into our phones or securely accessing our personal apps. Just think, it’s only a matter of time before we put similar technologies into our businesses. We just need to have our data security in tip top condition.
If you’d like to discuss how to strengthen your data protection and keep your business secure, call 01473 350444 and ask for Colin, or email enquiries@heronit.co.uk
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