The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has launched a new strategy focused on ensuring that organisations develop and implement AI and biometric technologies in a lawful and responsible manner.

Recent research highlights growing public concern over the potential risks of these technologies when misused. For example, 54% of respondents expressed worry that police use of facial recognition technology could infringe upon their privacy rights.

At the strategy launch, Information Commissioner John Edwards stated: “Public trust is not threatened by new technologies themselves, but by reckless applications of these technologies outside of the necessary guardrails.”

The ICO’s new approach aims to provide businesses with greater clarity while also reinforcing public confidence. Key components of the strategy include carrying out audits, issuing practical guidance, and creating a statutory code of practice. This code will support organisations in deploying AI responsibly, encouraging innovation while ensuring data privacy is upheld.

To review the full strategy, see: https://ico.org.uk/about-the-ico/our-information/our-strategies-and-plans/artificial-intelligence-and-biometrics-strategy/