Amazon AWS Panorama automated workplace surveillance

Occurred: December 2020

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AWS Panorama, a new service enabling the automated analysis of workplace security camera footage, has been criticised for its dual use nature. 

According to Amazon, Panorama can be used to 'evaluate manufacturing quality, identify bottlenecks in industrial processes, and monitor workplace safety and security.' 

However, commentators pointed out that the service could easily be used for other purposes, including to monitor employee productivity and performance, raising concerns about surveillance and workplace privacy.

Databank

Operator: Amazon

Developer: Amazon

Country: USA

Sector: Business/professional services

Purpose: Assess product quality; Monitor workplace safety & security  
Technology: CCTV; Computer vision

Issue: Privacy; Surveillance; Dual/multi-use
Transparency: Governance

Page info
Type: Issue
Published: January 2021
Last updated: November 2023