Challenges and perspectives to face recognition in criminal science
This article reviews practical challenges to and perspectives on the use of face recognition in criminal science. A better understanding of the limitations and opportunities of this technology is essential to determining how it should be used in the judicial system. We suggest that this reflection must be part of an interdisciplinary approach that integrates the use of algorithms while taking into account the unique characteristics of both criminology and forensic science. Determining the state of the art in the use of face recognition requires answering several fundamental questions. What sort of images are used in face recognition ? How are they compared ? What objectives does face recognition serve ? Where is it implemented and by whom ? These questions – and their answers – allow us to identify the challenges and shortcomings of face recognition, as well as perspectives on its development and research. At the data level, the main issue concerns the quality of the original image and its potential degradation during collection and storage, which can influence its subsequent use. At the methodological level, the stakes involve the lack of standardisation and transparency in tasks carried out by both humans and automatic systems. When looking at face recognition as used in the civil and judicial domains, questions arise around how to protect privacy and individual liberties. Finally, the main challenges raised by its use as evidence in court concern communication, as well as standardisation and methodological validation.