PEOPLE are being asked whether they support the use of live facial recognition (LFR) technology by police, a move already raising questions about privacy, surveillance and how far policing powers should go.

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick has launched a public survey on the possible rollout of LFR technology across the county, insisting residents should help shape any decision.

The technology uses cameras to scan faces in real time and compare them against a police watchlist of people wanted for offences or considered a risk to public safety.

If a possible match is detected, officers are alerted and can intervene.

Mr Sidwick said: “I believe it is essential that any decision involving new policing tools is informed by the views of the public we serve.”

Cameras scan faces in real time. (Picture: Dorset Police)

He acknowledged there is already concern surrounding the technology and said: “I know there is a great deal of misinformation out there about how this technology is used.

“I want to be clear: Unless you are on the watchlist you cannot be matched.”

According to the commissioner, people not identified as matches would have their images “automatically and immediately deleted”, while officers would manually review any alerts before action is taken.

But the prospect of cameras scanning members of the public in real time is likely to spark debate, particularly around civil liberties and the potential for mistakes or overreach.

Mr Sidwick said Dorset Police would publish “clear, accessible policies” explaining when and where the technology could be used, along with reports on its effectiveness and oversight.

Supporters argue the system could help police locate wanted suspects, identify vulnerable missing people and improve public safety.

Critics nationally, however, have previously raised concerns about mass surveillance and the impact on personal privacy.

Mr Sidwick added: “Your feedback as part of this survey is important, so I encourage you to take a few minutes to complete the survey and ensure your voice is heard.”

The survey can be completed online via https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LFRsurvey?utm_source=chatgpt.com