UK government is still using a 'racially biased' passport checker

The UK government is using a'racially biased' online passport photo checker – despite an updated version being available for more than a year. HM Passport Office has confirmed an improved version of the facial detection system, developed by its software vendor, has still not rolled out. The facial detection system is part of the UK government's online passport application service, which lets Brits apply for, renew, replace or update their passport and pay for it online. The technology informs people when it thinks a photo uploaded for a passport may not meet strict requirements – but this has been shown to lead to'racist' mistakes. Users of colour have received messages saying'it looks like your mouth is open', based on the size of their lips, as well other messages like'it looks like your eyes are closed' and'we can't find the outline of your head' due to their skin colour.