The AI gun detector debate arrived in the USA after the UK, and Evolv scanners are responsible for both disagreements.
Last week, Evolv, a security tech company making weapon detection scanners, claimed their tech was tested by a UK government agency. However, it turns out the agency doesn’t do such tests. So, an independent company test the scanners, didn’t assess weapon detection effectiveness. After that, Evolv apologized for any confusion.
Now the same company is under investigation by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), although New York City Mayor Eric Adams recently announced the city’s partnership with Evolv and the pilot program in the 11th-largest city in the world.
AI scanners in NY subways approved
In New York City, there’s a plan to use advanced technology called “AI gun detectors” to improve safety in the subway system. These detectors are designed to spot hidden firearms as people enter subway stations. The idea is to install these detectors at subway turnstiles, where people swipe their cards to enter with AI.
The plan is to partner with Evolv, which makes these AI gun detectors. However, Evolv is facing some questions from government agencies about how well their detectors actually work.
Despite these concerns, Mayor Eric Adams believes that using this technology is important for making the subway safer. He hopes that by using AI gun detectors, they can prevent violent incidents like shootings from happening in the subway.
The pilot program for AI gun scanners
The city will start testing these detectors in about 90 days, following rules that require transparency and evaluation of new surveillance technologies before they’re used. During this testing period, they’ll also consider other companies that make similar technology.
However, there are worries about whether these detectors will be accurate. Some reports suggest that they might mistake harmless objects, like umbrellas, for guns. There are also concerns that the company behind the detectors might not have been completely honest about how well they work.
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Despite these concerns, Mayor Adams is standing by the plan to use AI gun detectors. He believes that investing in proven technology is crucial for keeping the public safe.
Critics, however, are worried about the potential downsides of using this kind of surveillance technology. They argue that it could invade people’s privacy and might not be as effective as hoped.
As the plan moves forward, it’s sparking a wider conversation about the balance between safety and privacy, and the role that technology should play in keeping cities safe.
Featured image credit: Eray Eliaçık/Bing
