The Latest Breaking News from Big Brother Watch

Meta’s AI glasses pose growing threat to women and girls on London's Tube, say campaigners

The controversial smart specs have raised questions about their impact on vulnerable people in busy places

Evening Standard · Sep 7

Spies in the sky: how worried should we be about the arrival of AI-enabled smart lamp-posts?

The new breed of camera-equipped streetlights has the potential to fight crime and track down missing persons. Or will it just take Britain one step closer to a surveillance state?

The Guardian - UK · Jul 28

Andy Burnham to scrap Keir Starmer's digital ID scheme

ANDY Burnham will scrap Keir Starmer’s flagship digital ID programme when he takes office on Monday ...

The National (Scotland) · Jul 19

‘Surveillance is not safety’ — UK’s device scanning order faces privacy backlash

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer gave tech providers until September to scan and block explicit images on children’s phones. Privacy advocates are raising the alarm over the unintended consequences of these new obligations.

TechRadar · Jun 9

On London's streets, facial recognition tests the balance between security and liberty

The operation was an example of a technology the ​Metropolitan Police say is transforming policing, helping officers arrest around 2,500 wanted people since the start of 2024, including suspects accused of violent ​and sexual offences.

The Economic Times · May 22

Met Police wins high court challenge over use of live facial recognition technology

The Metropolitan Police has defeated a High Court challenge into the use of Live Facial Recognition across London.

Evening Standard · Apr 21

The UK doesn't want to force you to have a digital ID — but a 'trust me bro' approach won't make the cut

The new voluntary approach to UK digital IDs is a welcome change. But is it enough to ensure our most sensitive data remains private, secured, and free from abuse? The government wants to hear your say.

TechRadar · Mar 20

Labour bank spying bill will bring ‘unprecedented surveillance,’ charities warn

Exclusive: Government warned new counter-fraud powers risk ‘recreating Horizon-scale scandal’

The Independent UK · Oct 16, 2025

UK's New Digital 'Brit-Card' ID Is Mandatory for All Citizens: Here's What Happens if You Don't Comply

The UK government is preparing to launch a mandatory digital ID called the BritCard, designed to curb illegal immigration and modernise access to public services—but critics warn it risks creating a surveillance state and punishing vulnerable citizens.

International Business Times UK · Sep 25, 2025

Sainsbury’s tests facial recognition technology in effort to tackle shoplifting

Retailer starts eight-week trial at stores in London and Bath before potentially expanding nationwide

The Guardian - UK · Sep 2, 2025