Regarding Face Recognition, Shanghai Metro Ordered to Rectify

Regarding Face Recognition, Shanghai Metro Ordered to Rectify

Shanghai authorities have ordered the suspension of face recognition payment functions on more than 800 vending machines across the city's metro system, after multiple reports raised concerns over the risks of personal information leaks. The move comes as part of a broader effort to address the increasing use of face recognition technology in public spaces, which has triggered privacy and security issues for consumers.

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Face Recognition Technology Goes Mainstream

Face recognition technology has rapidly gained traction in various sectors, with applications ranging from unlocking smartphones and paying bills to opening doors and gaining access to public transportation. However, as the technology becomes more ubiquitous, concerns over privacy risks are growing, especially when personal data is involved.

In recent weeks, Shanghai residents reported incidents at metro stations, campuses, and other public venues where vending machines and other automated devices were collecting excessive personal information or indirectly pressuring users into using facial recognition for payment. In some cases, users were asked to provide additional personal details, such as gender, phone numbers, and birthdates, after their faces were scanned—information that had nothing to do with the payment process itself.

Investigations and Rectification

In response to these concerns, Shanghai's authorities began a comprehensive investigation into the issue. The Shanghai Municipal Cyberspace Administration uncovered multiple common problems across vending machines, including "unauthorized collection of facial data" and "inducement to collect personal information." The issue was particularly evident in unmanned vending machines that displayed prominent "face payment" or "face recognition" labels, directing users to scan their faces to unlock the machines. However, in some cases, after the face was scanned, additional personal information was requested.

As part of the investigation, Shanghai authorities ordered Shentong Metro to inspect and rectify all 1,400 vending machines in metro stations across the city. Of these, 829 machines were found to be non-compliant and were immediately ordered to suspend their face recognition payment functions.

Regulations for Face Recognition in Public Spaces

Shanghai authorities have set clear regulations for the use of face recognition technology in public spaces. The new rules state that the use of facial recognition must be "necessary for public safety," must have "legal basis," and must include "separate notification" to individuals whose data is being collected. Importantly, forced use of face recognition technology is now prohibited.

Source: 新闻坊

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