UK to Use Facial Age Estimation for Asylum Seekers Despite Known Flaws (wired.com)

• Internal Home Office report reveals FAE algorithms have serious bias against Sub-Saharan Africans.
• Average error of 4.6 years for female Sub-Saharan Africans, risking misclassification of children as adults.
• Home Office spent over $400,000 on Cognitec system despite known flaws.
• Scientific advisory committee disbanded while Home Office pursued FAE.
• Planned rollout delayed to 2027; critics call for program to be scrapped.

"The UK Home Office plans to deploy facial age estimation (FAE) AI for asylum seekers from 2027, despite internal tests revealing significant bias and inaccuracy, especially for Sub-Saharan Africans. A leaked report shows the best algorithm has a 4.6-year average error for female Sub-Saharan Africans. The Home Office disbanded a scientific advisory committee while pursuing FAE and spent over $400,000 on technology from German firm Cognitec. Critics warn of racist bias and dehumanization."