The ever-changing world of technology poses new challenges for journalists, one of which is digital identification and artificial intelligence. This technology is rapidly seeping into all aspects of our existence, from airport security and voting to driver’s licenses, travel, grocery shopping, and policing. Despite the potential benefits of artificial intelligence and advanced facial recognition systems, many Americans are hesitant to embrace the technology due to concerns about data privacy.
A recent survey found that 52% of Americans are more concerned than excited about the increased use of artificial intelligence, with many citing fears that their personal information could be leaked. In a time of political polarization and a lack of trust in the institutions that govern us, journalists have a responsibility to provide clear and accurate information about digital identity to the public.
This means presenting both sides of the issue fairly and without bias and explaining the potential risks and benefits of the technology in a way that is for the public to digest. By doing so, journalists can help ensure that the public is informed about this issue and can make smart decisions about their digital identity.
Current State of Public Opinion
A month ago, Amazon announced its new palm scanning technology called Amazon One which will roll out to 500 Whole Foods locations by the end of 2023. Instead of reading a face, Amazon One reads the lines and ridges of your palm and the vein patterns beneath it.
As is the case with all things novel, the technology sparked controversy. Many customers, specifically at a Washington, DC Whole Foods store, voiced their dissent so strongly that they initiated a boycott. A concerned user expressed their views on the platform X, formerly known as Twitter, saying, “Is this the future of in-store shopping? Whole Foods in Washington, DC, requires you to 1) scan in before entering 2) scan to enter checkout 3) scan to leave the checkout 4) scan to leave the store. Too much?”
The primary concerns around these technologies are the potential for data breaches, identity theft, and the ethical considerations of businesses tailoring marketing efforts based on customers’ buying behaviors.
While lingering privacy concerns remain, it is important to highlight how digital identity has already laid out a blueprint for success in transforming the airport experience. Digital identity capabilities like face recognition are presenting the federal government with an opportunity to significantly upgrade travel experiences from coast to coast, says Jason Van Sice, VP at NEC Corporation of America in Federal News Network.
Luke Hogg in Reason Magazine urges caution, noting Colorado’s new digital ID app for driver’s licenses will over time explode into a government-controlled ledger of citizens’ information. He argues decentralized networks cause there to be no trusted intermediary in a digital system, so digital identification could theoretically cut the government out entirely. In other words, it is essential that the government builds tools in ways that inherently protect civil liberties rather than asking citizens to just trust government officials.
A Marketplace of Ideas
Journalists have a vital role to play in explaining digital identification and advanced facial recognition to the public. They must use clear and concise language to discuss these complex topics, as they can be confusing for many people. By highlighting the potential benefits and risks of digital identity, they can help ensure that the public is informed and engaged in the conversation.
At Xenophon Strategies, we are committed to keeping up with the latest developments in emerging technologies, such as digital identity and artificial intelligence. We understand the challenges that journalists face in navigating the rapidly changing media landscape, while always learning new ways to provide insightful reporting on these issues.
In a world that is increasingly reliant on digital identity, it is more important than ever to protect our values and ethics. We believe that journalism can play a vital role in this effort by serving as a reliable marketplace of ideas. When done right, journalism helps ensure that all voices are heard and that the best ideas continue to prevail.