Attendees' perceptions of consent for facial recognition technology at events

Abstract

Facial Recognition Technology (FRT) recognizes individuals by examining facial features captured in videos or photos. In event management, its use is revolutionizing the attendee experience by enabling automated check-ins, improving security protocols, and offering customized services. Although it offers potential advantages, concerns regarding privacy, data security, and ethical issues have been a central focus in both academic and public discussions. This integration of technological innovation with ethical practices provides a comprehensive approach to improving the event experience. However, understanding attendees' perceptions and FRT adoption in this context remains underexplored. This research aims to explore event attendees' perceptions of consent for FRT at events. The data are collected through an online survey in Australia. Three open-ended questions and socio- demographic information are used and analyzed by Leximancer. This study identifies important themes related to attendees' perceptions of consent for FRT and evaluate perceived benefits and drawbacks from an attendee's perspective and provide recommendations for increasing acceptance and addressing concerns. This research contributes to a more secure and convenient event experience but also enhances overall attendee experience, making the case for the responsible and ethical implementation of FRT at events.