Hi-tech face recognition cameras used in Budgens to spot underage drinkers (h/t boingboing)

A supermarket chain is introducing face recognition cameras to prevent staff mistakenly selling cigarettes and alcohol to under-18s.

So in the UK they will automatically record every face who buys cigarettes or alcohol. In the US they have started doing this electronically by swiping your drivers license in many states.

On another monitoring effort is the mobile plate recognition (ALPR) systems and automatic entry of your location into a massive database. Right now the ALPR data is typically uploaded into a local database at then end of a shift. They are looking to combine this data into one massive continent wide tracking system.

Knowledge Computing Corporation and ELSAG North America Announce Strategic Partnership

“COPLINK’s information sharing, tactical analysis, lead generation, visualization and decision support solutions are proven performers when it comes to solving or thwarting crime and terrorism,” stated Mark Windover, President and CEO of ELSAG North America. “Because over 70% of all crimes involve the use of vehicles, the license plate data available through ELSAG’s system will become even more valuable in helping law enforcement prevent criminals or terrorists from falling through the cracks.”

“ELSAG has demonstrated consistent leadership in providing one of the most advanced and accurate license plate recognition solutions in the industry,” said Robert Griffin, CEO of Knowledge Computing Corp. “With a combined reach in over 1700 jurisdictions nationwide, spanning across 33 states, including all five of the nation’s largest cities, this partnership will enable both companies to expand and better serve our client base.”

Here is how it works in case you were unaware they are recording your visit to the mall.. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PXjZcFesC…