EDPB provides input on biometric use in airports
The French Supervisory Authority has sought the European Data Protection Board's opinion on the use of facial recognition technology by airport operators and airline companies for biometric authentication of passengers, with the objective of enhancing passenger flow at airports. The Board underscores that the use of biometric data, particularly facial recognition technology, poses significant risks to the rights and freedoms of individuals. This data type is given special protection under Article 9 of the GDPR. Prior to implementing such technologies, controllers are strongly advised to thoroughly evaluate the impact on individuals' fundamental rights and freedoms, and to consider if less invasive methods can achieve the intended purpose. The focus of this opinion is on the compatibility of the processing with specific articles of the GDPR, with the aim of streamlining passenger flow at airports at security checkpoints, baggage drop-off, boarding, and access to passenger loung...