Australia’s Information Commissioner Calls Off Clearview Inquiry

Australia’s Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) has decided to halt its investigation into the controversial facial recognition firm Clearview AI, despite concerns over the its non-compliance with Australian privacy laws.

The investigation began in 2021, and focused on Clearview AI’s alleged unlawful collection of biometric data from Australian residents without their consent. The Privacy Commissioner, Carly Kind, stated on August 21 that further action was not warranted at this time, although the initial determination against Clearview AI remains in effect, prohibiting the company from collecting images of Australians and mandating the deletion of previously collected data.

The decision has sparked criticism from digital rights advocates, who argue that more scrutiny is needed. Australian Greens Senator David Shoebridge highlighted concerns that Clearview AI might continue to engage in unauthorized data scraping. The OAIC also emphasized the growing issue of data scraping in the context of generative AI development and announced plans to issue additional guidance for entities involved in AI training to ensure compliance with privacy laws.

Clearview AI has faced similar legal challenges internationally. In the UK, the company was fined £7.5 million for violating data protection laws, and in the U.S., it has settled lawsuits and agreed to restrictions on its business practices, including a ban on selling its facial recognition database to most U.S. businesses and entities in Illinois for five years.

Public sentiment toward facial recognition technology in Australia has been evolving. A recent academic report revealed that Australians generally support the use of FRT by police and healthcare providers but are uncomfortable with its use by private tech companies. The report’s findings suggest that while Australians recognize the potential benefits of FRT in improving safety and solving crimes, there is a strong demand for informed consent and clear regulatory frameworks to prevent misuse.

This highlights the importance of ongoing scrutiny of companies like Clearview AI, particularly as public trust in the responsible use of FRT by private entities remains low.

Source: Infosecurity Magazine

–

August 21, 2024 – by Ali Nassar-Smith