While Wicket’s computer vision algorithms are technically a facial recognition system, we prefer to use the term Facial Authentication. Facial recognition systems like those used by law enforcement or security agencies (to identify an unknown individual by running an image through an extensive database) are based on a surveillance model.
Wicket differs from this approach in two ways:
Firstly, Wicket has an opt-in-only model. We do not use our technology to keep people out, but rather to let known faces (registered users) in—only people who have explicitly opted into Wicket-powered services can use them.
Secondly, Wicket’s Facial Authentication system is designed to protect the privacy of those who do not want to be captured at all. To ensure unwilling participants aren’t scanned by Wicket, users must physically present to a Wicket sensor to gain access to confirm that the user is:
- Enrolled in a Wicket-powered service (by opting in)
- Eligible for access to that service
- Granted or denied the service based on their eligibility
In short, Facial Authentication verifies the identity of an individual who has already provided consent to be in the system via an opt-in procedure.