Facial Recognition Systems Now Used in Over 60 Russian Regions

More than 60 regions in Russia are now using facial recognition systems, according to Sergey Suchkov, CEO of NtechLab, a company that develops such technology. In 2021, the system was used and tested in only about five regions, meaning the number of Russian regions utilizing facial recognition has increased twelvefold.

“At least 62 regions in Russia are using facial recognition systems for various purposes,” Suchkov stated, adding that most regions began adopting the technology between 2021 and 2023.

Main Uses of Facial Recognition Technology

• Nearly half of the time, facial recognition systems are used to enhance street security by integrating with citywide video surveillance networks.
• The technology is also being used in schools and universities, including for monitoring entry into educational institutions.

According to a survey conducted by NtechLab, almost three-quarters of Russians (74%) believe that having more surveillance cameras on streets and in public places increases safety. Nearly as many respondents (72%) think that using facial recognition to process footage from surveillance cameras makes them feel safer.

Concerns Over Privacy and Data Security

The organization Roskomsvoboda considers facial recognition a dual-use technology that can violate citizens’ rights and intrude on their privacy. There have been multiple cases where these systems were used to track opposition figures and protest participants, and last year, they were reportedly used during the “partial mobilization.”

There have also been known incidents of biometric data leaks from such systems. Roskomsvoboda is calling for a moratorium on the use of facial recognition technology until a regulatory framework is established that allows civil society to oversee its use. To support this, they have launched a campaign and regularly publish updates and information about the issues surrounding facial recognition systems on a dedicated resource.