HYDERABAD: Data safety specialists have red-flagged Facial Recognition Technology (FRT) used to authenticate entry by means of digital database verification in gated communities and golf equipment run by personal events.
In the absence of a regulatory mechanism or a particular legislation, privateness of faces, fingerprints and biometrics collected and saved is in danger, say specialists. Several golf equipment and gated communities in Hyderabad have begun utilizing facial recognition units at entry and exit factors.

Security automation corporations, nonetheless, declare these units usually are not linked to the web, however linked to Local Area Network (LAN) and the information is encrypted.
Data safety researcher Srinivas Kodali mentioned, “Restricting movement through unbridled use of FRT infringes on an individual’s fundamental right to privacy. The technology lacks safeguards and is being introduced in private spaces and employment contracts. Gated communities should be aware that they are equally liable for damages in case of data breach.”
FRT abuse is but to be witnessed on a big scale, however a menace stems from the potential of a improper facial identification that might set off policing and social exclusion. Currently, there is no such thing as a legislation to straight regulate FRT or biometrics, he mentioned. Clubs, gated communities and personal workplaces, significantly in Hyderabad, have arrange FRT machines linked to Turnstile gates that open following facial detection. The units give an alert on ‘strangers’ and gates stay shut.
Tamanapdui Abhilash of Redfence Automation says, “Facial recognition devices are connected to turnstile gates through a relay system. Devices available in India are powered by Chinese technology and cost around Rs 30,000-40,000. Those manufactured in the West or made-in-India may cost a little more.
Whether desi or imported, functionality remains accurate. A device has an in-built memory and can store 200 to 10,000 facial templates and thumb impressions. In-card devices are stored separately in controlled units. These devices are connected to computers in a LAN. Facial data stored in one device can be read in another device.”
He additionally reiterated that facial knowledge is encrypted and can’t be downloaded. “The computer runs on a software, where names and entry times will be sent. A photo can be uploaded to make a database. but it will not read photos for entry or exit. The algorithm can only detect a live presence,” he added.
Even if somebody steals the FRT machine, it’s password protected with the PIN and fingerprint of the person. Only authorised directors can entry it. Even in the event that they hack the password, knowledge is encrypted and can’t be downloaded. Clicking pictures in gate automation programs has turn out to be frequent. Fingerprints will be misused, not pictures”.
The ministry of house affairs had clarified within the Lok Sabha that digital data and method of assortment or storage of non-public knowledge, together with facial recognition, are regulated by Information Technology Act, 2000.