EU border points to test AI lie detectors

eu border points to test ai lie detectors to improve security

The Telegraph reported that lie detectors equipped with artificial intelligence will be tested at border points in Europe. This is part of an EU-funded project to fight terrorism and crime. Travelers will need to upload a photo of their passport as well as photos of their visa and proof of funds. Furthermore, they will have to answer security questions to a computer-animated border guard through a webcam.

The project is called iBorderCrtl will be first tested at the borders of Hungary, Latvia, and Greece for a period of six months. One of the goals of this € 4.5 m project is to speed up traffic at the EU’s external borders.

After the initial trials, more countries are expected to participate, including Spain, Poland, Germany, and Cyprus.

Security Matters in the EU

The security of all EU members has been a great concern for its leaders. The EU is also developing the ETIAS system to determine travelers eligibility. The ETIAS visa waiver will be a requirement for nationals from visa exempt countries. Travelers will be required to complete an online ETIAS application form with their personal and passport details. Security questions will be included in the form as well.

When an ETIAS application is submitted, all of the data provided will be contrasted against a series of security databases that include the Interpol, Europol, Eurodav, and VIS. If an application sets off an alarm, it will be revised manually. In the case that an ETIAS is denied, the applicant will be able to appeal.

AI Lie Detectors

The AI lie detectors are being promoted as having a “unique approach to deception detection”. The lie detectors will analyze a traveler’s micro-expressions to figure out if they are lying.

Passengers considered high-risk will undergo a more detailed screening. According to early testing, the system is about 76 percent accurate. The team behind the iBorderCtrl project are confident that they can increase this to 85 percent.

The AI will be supported by human border officials, who will use hand-held devices in order to cross-check information. They will be able to compare facial images captured during the pre-screening stage, to passport and photos taken on previous border crossings.

Project Coordinator of European Dynamics in Luxembourg, George Boultadakis, told the European Commission: “We’re employing existing and proven technologies – as well as novel ones – to empower border agents to increase the accuracy and efficiency of border checks.”

According to the Telegraph, the government of the United Kingdom announced early in 2018 that “they were to step up facial recognition at British borders to cross-check for visa applications or while solving crimes.”

If the iBorderCrtl system is approved, it will a step that all travelers will need to complete before entering countries in the EU.