Russia plans to install facial recognition surveillance technology in Thailand

Russian biometrics company ‘NtechLab’ announced plans to “enter the Thai market.” The company produces a facial recognition tool called ‘FindFace,’ which can be used to identify suspected criminals. The company is also considering moving its Asia headquarters to Thailand.

The company claims that 23 countries worldwide are already using FindFace surveillance technology, sparking privacy and human rights concerns among the public.

Major Russian companies have been sanctioned by the West following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February. However, an investigation by Insider earlier this month revealed that several Western companies are using NtechLab’s surveillance technologies, despite sanctions.

NtechLab is present in 23 countries in the Middle East, North Africa, South, and Southeast Asia, and Europe, according to NtechLab.

The chief Commercial Officer at NtechLab commented on the company’s expansion in Southeast Asia…

“In 2021, NtechLab experienced rapid development in all markets. In Southeast Asia, we grew 40 percent more than in 2020. In 2022, year-over-year growth has already exceeded 40 percent.

“We are currently looking at Thailand as a potential NtechLab headquarters. The country is a driver of digital transformation in the region.”

Head of Business Development and Sales (Asia-Pacific) of Ntechlab, Dmitry Tameev, also commented on the company’s plans for Thailand.

“As a leading face recognition software company, NtechLab has established a worldwide network of trusted partners who implement our technology. Companies in Thailand show amazing expertise in research and development and digital transformation projects implementation.”

“We are also looking to attract talented, young professionals and scientists from Thailand. We are ready to share our expertise, conduct joint projects, and share expertise with Thai companies and government entities to implement a smart and safe cities concept.”

The BBC reports that Moscow’s video surveillance system is made up of four facial recognition algorithms that are directly connected to the Moscow mayor’s office. The technology is used to catch criminals in Moscow and has also been used to monitor political opponents of Belarusian president Alexander Lukashenko, said the BBC.

NtechLab’s services are used in Moscow’s surveillance system, as well as services from Tevian, VisionLabs, and Kipod.

Russia’s use of facial recognition surveillance systems in metro stations, schools, and universities has been criticised as violating the privacy and human rights of the general public.

SOURCE: Biometric Update