Former UK Surveillance Camera Regulator is Corsight AI’s New Chief Privacy Officer

“Privacy is at the core of Corsight AI, and we are demonstrating this commitment by creating a unique position within the business.” – Rob Watts, CEO, Corsight AI

Corsight AI has appointed Tony Porter, the former UK Surveillance Camera Commissioner, as its ‘Chief Privacy Officer’.

Many will see the appointment as something of an ingenious move on Corsight’s part at a time of growing scrutiny over the privacy implications of biometric technology and facial recognition in particular. In his previous position as the Surveillance Camera Commissioner, Porter had a mandate to advise the British government on its code of practice for surveillance cameras and to encourage compliance with the code. In other words, he was on the regulatory side of the facial recognition industry; and now, he will bring that perspective to a private sector actor involved in the space.

Corsight lays claim to “the highest NIST-ranked Western-based facial recognition” technology, as the company put it in a statement; and it has an IP portfolio of over 250 patents. The company officially launched its facial recognition solution toward the end of last year.

In announcing Porter’s appointment, the company framed him as an “outspoken supporter” of facial recognition technology when used responsibly, and said that he would help the firm to meet regulatory guidelines with respect to its biometric solution.

“His wealth of experience and intelligence background will ensure we remain compliant in every jurisdiction, and more importantly, help our clients apply the technology legally,” explained Corsight AI CEO Rob Watts. “Privacy is at the core of Corsight AI, and we are demonstrating this commitment by creating a unique position within the business.”

For his part, Porter suggested that his aim is to help change the public perception of facial recognition technology moving forward, with a strong focus on the “adherence to exacting standards” when such technology is deployed.

“By joining Corsight AI, I firmly believe we can help change perceptions surrounding the technology and demonstrate how it can be a force for good,” he said. “As part of my role, I am keen to engage with those who are concerned about the technology’s use within society, so we can help Corsight AI provide the great value to society I know it can.”

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January 12, 2020 – by Alex Perala