Japan to use facial recognition to restrict admission of gambling addicts

The government said Thursday it plans to ask horse race and pachinko parlor operators to consider using facial recognition systems to restrict admission of gambling addicts. The use of facial recognition systems is part of a basic plan to combat gambling addiction that the government drafted to pave the way for opening casinos in Japan. Facial recognition systems can help efficiently identify gambling addicts after restrictions on their entry into racetracks and pachinko parlors are requested by themselves or family members, officials said. The government's plan also includes the removal of automated teller machines from these gambling sites. After seeking opinions from the public, the government aims to adopt the plan next month.