The EU is set to introduce ‘lie detector’ tests using AI for British tourists seeking entry, sparking fears of visa rejections and discrimination. Experts warn of potential privacy violations as personal data will be cross-referenced, raising questions about the technology’s reliability and impact on individuals with disabilities.
British tourists will face novel ‘lie detector’ tests administered by artificial intelligence (AI) before gaining entry into Europe, The Mail on Sunday reports. The European Union (EU) has trialled these checks, designed to assess a person’s facial and body movements during online or in-person application processes at various entry points. If the AI flags a person as suspicious, their file is reviewed by an immigration officer who can potentially refuse entry.
Experts caution that the AI system may lead to widespread visa rejections and potential discrimination, particularly against individuals with disabilities. This scheme will be phased in following the implementation of the Entry-Exit System (EES) starting October 6, which requires British travelers to have their biometric data, including fingerprints and facial images, collected and stored every three years.
From mid-next year, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will be introduced, requiring Britons to apply online for a 90-day visa waiver, similar to the US ESTA. ETIAS applications will cost seven euros.
The technology has been trialled through projects like iBorderCtrl and TRESPASS, which tested AI avatars to interview applicants and assess their honesty based on non-verbal cues. German MEP Patrick Breyer criticized the technology as ‘pseudoscience’ and voiced concerns over its potential discriminatory impact.
Concerns have also arisen over privacy, as the AI system may cross-reference applicants’ personal data with extensive databases, including social media accounts. The EU is additionally developing a Common Identity Repository (CIR) that will store records of 300 million individuals, including British citizens entering the EU. EU-LISA, responsible for overseeing border security IT infrastructure, was contacted for comments but has yet to provide a statement.
