Major artists such as The Glitch Mob, Tom Morello, and more have recently partnered with Fight for the Future, a digital rights group. Their mission is to raise awareness against the use of facial recognition technology at festivals and concerts. Large companies like Live Nation have already invested in Blink Identity, a product that is capable of identifying people with frictionless identification. In a sense, the new technology would shorten wait lines, but it could come at a personal cost for fans.
In order to implement the use of such a prying technology, it would have to work perfectly, and a major issue is the technology incorrectly identifying or targeting fans of color or mis-gender/trans fans. It adds the risk of fans being unjustly detained, harassed or judged while trying to enter a venue. Possible deportation or arrests for minor drug offenses would come from the use of this tech as well.
With no regulation or responsible party in place to manage this invasive technology, some artists are taking a stand. The Glitch Mob and Tom Morello, previously of Rage Against the Machine, have spoken out against facial recognition.
Protect the privacy of fans at live shows. Ban facial recognition technology at festivals and concerts ⚠️ https://t.co/6aVfjuRjLb https://t.co/lMDsr99DSM
— The Glitch Mob (@theglitchmob) September 9, 2019
I don’t want Big Brother at my shows targeting fans for harassment, deportation, or arrest. That’s why I’m joining this campaign calling on @Ticketmaster and others not to use #facialrecognition at festivals and concerts. https://t.co/i3a9oPIa5C
— Tom Morello (@tmorello) September 9, 2019
With awareness of the dangers of facial recognition growing, Fight for the Future asks concertgoers to make their voices heard. Interested parties can sign an online petition to join the cause.
What do you think of Fight for the Future’s work in banning facial recognition tech? Tell us on Facebook and Twitter!
Important things happen in Pacific Northwest nightlife, and DMNW will send you alerts!
