Pakistan 3rd worst after China and Malaysia in the invasive use of biometric data collection

The study finds that there is a lack of regard in Pakistan for the privacy of people’s biometric data.

CCTV,CCTV security guard in the mall building. Source: Moment RF

Pakistan is one of the worst countries in terms of “extensive and invasive” use of biometric data, according to the latest study by Comparitech, a British-based research firm.

The study analysed 50 countries on how biometric data was collected and then used with or without the laws in that country.

The study states that through the collection, use, and storage of biometric data, these countries use biometrics to a severe and invasive extent.

The top countries with the least score include Ireland, Portugal, Cyprus, UK and Romania.

The study says that while no fingerprints are taken during the entrance in Pakistan there are no specific laws protect citizen’s biometrics or no data protection law in place to safeguard employees’ biometrics.

China tops the list as the worst country in terms of collection of biometric with “widespread and invasive” use of facial recognition technology in CCTV cameras.

Map showing 50 countries analysed by Comparitech. Source: Comparitech

Each country has been scored out of 25, with high scores indicating extensive and invasive use of biometrics and/or surveillance and a low score demonstrating better restrictions and regulations regarding biometric use and surveillance - Comparitech