Scientists at Tokyo’s National Institute of Informatics have invented a Privacy Visor. When the Visor is worn on the face, its LEDs emit near infrared rays capable of blocking facial recognition software, without affecting the wearer’s vision.
Prof. Isao Echizen, the mastermind behind the invention, said the visor is the answer to what he describes as “the invasion of privacy caused by photographs taken in secret”.
“As a result of developments in facial recognition technology in Google images, Facebook etc and the popularisation of portable terminals that append photos with photographic information [geotags]… essential measures for preventing the invasion of privacy caused by photographs taken in secret and unintentional capture in camera images is now required,” he said.
Police, security companies and shops are increasingly using facial software recognition. According to BBC reports, in 2012 it emerged that some shop mannequins were collecting data on shoppers using facial-recognition software. With augmented reality eyewear on the way, the technology for facial recognition is expected to become more widely used in the public arena. Consequently there has been increasing concern – and debate – over the issue of invasion of privacy.
Although the concept for Prof. Echizen’s Privacy Visor is not yet ready to be worn in public, he has been approached by several companies interested in its development and is currently working on a new model with a smaller power pack. He said the final product will connect to a pocket power supply, and be reasonably priced.
