Concerns about privacy are being raised over a new computer system developed to identify and track one or more suspects in multiple surveillance footages in 3D. To be used by the police and investigating bodies, the software is an advanced video fusion system for investigating security incidents. Developed by th
Concerns about privacy are being raised over a new computer system developed to identify and track one or more suspects in multiple surveillance footages in 3D.
To be used by the police and investigating bodies, the software is an advanced video fusion system for investigating security incidents.
Developed by the University of Hong Kong's department of computer science, it processes surveillance videos and creates a 3D re-enactment of the event, which allows close-up examination of the actions of suspects from all possible viewing angles.
Research team member Clavin Fong Chi-keung said: "The new software - `Smart 3D SkyEye' - integrates images from dozens of surveillance cameras.
"It can help track the suspects and their collaborators by using features including body gestures, color and texture of clothing and belongings, in a systematic manner to know their whereabouts under different time frames, and retrieve subtle but important details which could have otherwise been easily overlooked."
Research on the system began 2 years ago and cost US$0.7 million, of which 90% came from the government. It will be available for testing in one to 2 years' time.
The system will mainly focus on indoor surveillance but cannot identify twins, children and individuals who are blocked by other people.
The Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data said: "It is advisable to assess if there is a pressing need to use surveillance footages. Other less privacy-intrusive alternatives must be considered."