Campaign Against Use Of Facial Recognition Technology At Concerts Launched

“Ban Facial Recognition” is the name for the latest campaign by Fight For The Future, a non-profit organization, which aims to ensure that the web continues to hold freedom of expression and creativity at its core.

On a dedicated website, the organization states its concerns about Ticketmaster investing in facial recognition technology – a technology that has the potential of putting “undocumented fans, fans of color, trans fans, and fans with criminal records at risk of being unjustly detained, harassed, or judged.”

“24/7 mass surveillance will not keep concerts safe,” it states.

The campaign targets fans, artists and venues alike, and encourages them to each take individual steps in order to protest the implementation of facial recognition technology at live music events.

The website encourages fans to email festivals and voice their disapproval, as well as to sign a petition that states: “Facial recognition surveillance is biased, invasive, and it violates my basic rights. I do not want to attend any events where it is used. I urge all musicians, festivals, concert venues, and ticketing companies to reject this technology.

“Furthermore, I want my representatives to pass laws that ban the government from using this dangerous technology to spy on the American public.”

Many artists have already come out in favor of the campaign, including Rage Against the Machine guitarist Tom Morello, who tweeted: “I don’t want Big Brother at my shows targeting fans for harassment, deportation, or arrest. That’s why I’m joining this campaign calling on Ticketmaster and others not to use #facialrecognition at festivals and concerts.”

Amanda Palmer, who is about to tour the UK in October, tweeted: “People should feel safe & respected at shows, not subject to surveillance, harassment, deportation, or arrest.”

Pollstar reached out to Ticketmaster to find out what it makes of the campaign.