Facial recognition designed to detect around face masks is failing, study finds

Algorithms designed specifically for face masks are getting stumped, researchers found. Many facial recognition companies have claimed they can identify people with pinpoint accuracy even while they're wearing face masks, but the latest results from a study show that the coverings are dramatically increasing error rates. In an update Tuesday, the US National Institute of Standards and Technology looked at 41 facial recognition algorithms submitted after the COVID-19 pandemic was declared in mid-March. Many of these algorithms were designed with face masks in mind, and claimed that they were still able to accurately identify people, even when half of their face was covered. Keep track of the coronavirus pandemic.