UK border officials to use AI to verify ages of child asylum seekers

9 months ago

UK officials will use AI to estimate the age of asylum seekers claiming to be children.
Immigration Minister Angela Eagle announced the testing of AI-based facial age estimation technology.
The AI technology is trained on verifiable images to provide accurate age estimates.
A pilot scheme will be launched to test the technology for integration into age verification checks by next year.
The Home Office already uses AI in other areas, such as detecting sham marriages, but faces criticism for bias.
Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle announced a deal with OpenAI to explore AI uses in justice, security, and education.
A report by David Bolt highlighted failures in age verification systems, affecting the mental health of young asylum seekers.
The Refugee Council found that over 1,300 children were incorrectly classified as adults in an 18-month period.
Researchers recommended stripping the Home Office of decision-making power over lone child asylum seekers.

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