French police are implementing AI-enhanced video surveillance at two Paris metro stations frequented by attendees of Taylor Swift’s concerts, citing heightened terrorism risks. This temporary deployment at Nanterre Préfecture and La Défense Grande Arche stations will last from May 7 to 14, aligning with events at the nearby Paris La Défense Arena.
This initiative follows the recent enactment of legislation by the French Assemblée Nationale and Senate in May 2023. This law, expedited in preparation for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, permits AI-driven surveillance. Despite its passage, the technology has faced criticism from various experts. AI-powered video surveillance, or “algorithmic video surveillance” (VSA), uses AI algorithms to analyze live video feeds, identifying suspicious activities like unattended luggage without employing biometric data or facial recognition. This system aims to enhance security efficiency, which would typically require extensive human resources.
However, groups like La Quadrature du Net challenge the effectiveness and necessity of VSA, particularly questioning its reliability in identifying complex behaviours based on insufficient historical data. Bastien Le Querrec from La Quadrature du Net argues that the technology, primarily effective against minor crimes, may not adequately address more significant threats like those posed at large events.
The deployment of this surveillance technology has sparked concerns about potential infringements on personal freedoms and privacy. Critics argue that automating surveillance magnifies its impact, possibly affecting fundamental rights such as freedom of expression and association. Amnesty International France has also highlighted the risks of discrimination and privacy breaches associated with algorithmic surveillance.
Further complicating matters is the potential for the technology’s extended use beyond the Olympics, as suggested by French sports minister Amélie Oudéa-Castéra. The current legislation allows experimental use of this surveillance at various events until March 31, 2025, with possibilities for future expansion. As for the current implementation, the company Wintics, utilizing its Cityvision software, handles the technical operations under police contracts. Each deployment necessitates a prefectural decree, which has been critiqued for its timing—often issued just before activation, limiting opportunities for legal recourse.
Critics like Le Querrec argue that this timing strategy minimizes the chances of legal challenges against potentially rights-infringing measures. The Paris Police Prefecture has not yet commented on these assertions but has assured that their operations adhere to personal data protection training. All data collected through this AI surveillance is slated to be stored for one year, as stipulated by police regulations.
