UK shop ordered to stop using facial recognition technology to monitor staff
The UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has taken a significant step in the enforcement of biometric data protection by issuing an order against Serco Leisure, a subsidiary of Serco Group. The ICO’s investigation revealed that Serco Leisure had been unlawfully processing the biometric data of over 2,000 employees at 38 managed leisure centres to monitor attendance, utilizing facial recognition and fingerprint scanning technologies. This marks the first instance of the ICO taking action against an employer for the processing of staff biometric data, highlighting the seriousness of the issue.
Serco Leisure has been directed to cease the use of biometric data for attendance monitoring and to destroy any such information not legally required to be kept, within a three-month timeframe. The ICO’s decision comes amid increasing concerns over the use of surveillance technologies in the workplace. The ICO criticized Serco for not providing a clear alternative to biometric scanning and for not demonstrating the necessity or proportionality of using such technology over more traditional methods like ID cards or fobs.
In response to the ICO’s enforcement notice, Serco Leisure acknowledged the technology had been in place for nearly five years, intended to simplify clocking in and out for staff. The company stated that the rollout was well-received by employees and was in line with external legal advice. However, with the ICO’s recent publication of new guidelines for the processing of biometric data, Serco Leisure has committed to full compliance with the enforcement notice.
The ICO’s action against Serco Leisure is a reminder of the importance of adhering to data protection laws, particularly when handling sensitive biometric data. Organizations must carefully consider the legal and ethical implications of such technologies and ensure compliance with updated guidance to avoid similar enforcement actions.
Source: Serco ordered to stop using facial recognition technology to monitor staff
