The Metropolitan Police has initiated hundreds of investigations into officers flagged by an artificial intelligence tool developed by Palantir, resulting in three arrests for serious criminal offences including sexual assault and misconduct in public office. The Metropolitan Police Federation (MPF), representing over 30,000 frontline officers, is considering legal action against the force, describing the AI's deployment as an 'outrageous and unforgivable invasion of privacy'.
Privacy Concerns Raised
The MPF raised concerns that the AI technology, which includes 24/7 geo-location tracking, was implemented without their full knowledge and could monitor officers when off duty, potentially misusing personal data for various purposes. General secretary Matt Cane stated that this use of AI would severely damage officers' trust and morale, questioning its proportionality, GDPR compliance, and adherence to the right to private life under the Human Rights Act.
Background and Response
The Met introduced the AI tool to identify potential professional standards concerns following a series of high-profile cases involving its officers. In response, the MPF has advised members to exercise caution when carrying work devices off duty. The federation is now exploring legal avenues to challenge what it views as an overreach in surveillance technology.
