Fight for the Future released a statement denouncing facial scanning companies as “morally corrupt” and highlighting the inaccuracies of facial recognition tools, which they argue create more harm than they solve. The organization expresses concerns about a future world devoid of privacy, where constant identification and surveillance become the norm.
While some proponents of facial recognition technology emphasize its potential benefits, such as Taylor Swift’s use of the technology to identify potential stalkers during concerts, there have already been instances of its misuse. Madison Square Garden, for example, has employed facial recognition technology to identify and ban lawyers involved in lawsuits against the venue and its affiliated companies. The forced removal of several attorneys from MSG and Radio City Music Hall prompted an official inquiry from New York Attorney General Letitia James. The New York State Liquor Authority has also initiated proceedings to revoke the liquor licenses of Madison Square Garden Entertainment, the parent company, as reported by the New York Post. In response, MSG has sued the state, emphasizing that litigation creates an adversarial environment.
While Madison Square Garden has faced significant scrutiny, other large venues across the country, including Citi Field in New York, FirstEnergy Stadium in Cleveland, and Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, have also implemented facial recognition technology, highlighting the widespread nature of this issue.
