Video surveillance has become ubiquitous in our cities and businesses, and the question of ethics in surveillance technology is more pertinent than ever. Amidst growing concerns over privacy and the ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI), the French company Videtics is emerging as a pioneer, offering an innovative and ethical solution to video surveillance. Unlike traditional methods, which often raise privacy concerns, Videtics combines cutting-edge AI technology with a solid ethical framework to provide a surveillance solution that respects individual privacy while enhancing security and efficiency in urban and business environments.
The integration of video surveillance in public and private sectors has been a subject of heated debate across the globe. Concerns about privacy infringement, especially with facial recognition technology, have made headlines, challenging the balance between security and personal freedom. France, a nation known for its strong stance on privacy rights, has not been immune to these discussions. In a groundbreaking move, the French company Videtics is reshaping the narrative around video surveillance by introducing an AI-based solution that prioritizes ethical considerations.
Established in 2019, Videtics’ mission is to offer a video surveillance system that aligns with the core value of ethics. Co-founder Alan Ferbach emphasizes, “Ethics is a core value for us.” This philosophy is evident in every aspect of Videtics’ operations, from data handling to the implementation of its technology. The company’s name, a blend of “video” and “ethics,” reflects its commitment to ethical surveillance practices.
Videtics specializes in AI-driven video analysis for cities and industrial buildings. The company has already secured clients such as Suez and EDF groups and local authorities in southern France, including the city of Nice. Despite the widespread availability of video surveillance cameras, Videtics noticed that most streams are underutilized, with only a fraction monitored by operators. This observation led to the development of an AI algorithm designed to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of surveillance operations.
The AI solution developed by Videtics continuously analyzes surveillance images and extracts relevant data for operators. For cities, this involves statistical counting to aid in urban planning, such as assessing vehicle flow to manage traffic lights and reduce pollution. Regarding security, the AI can detect irregularities, like a vehicle moving against traffic or a person’s unusual presence, and automatically generate alerts.
Videtics’ approach to video surveillance extends beyond just monitoring. Its software integrates seamlessly with existing camera types and video management software, allowing for the retrieval of streams, analysis, and transmission of statistical data and alerts. This integration ensures that Videtics’ solution is not just an add-on but a comprehensive enhancement to existing surveillance systems.
In the realm of smart city applications, Videtics is making significant strides. The company serves several local authorities, employing its software for diverse purposes, from monitoring crowd density in tourist destinations to enforcing no-fishing zones in marine conservation areas. These applications demonstrate the versatility and societal benefits of Videtics’ technology.
Regarding industrial applications, Videtics’ AI plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of workers in hazardous environments. For instance, at Suez, the AI system monitors the posture and actions of isolated workers, detecting any signs of distress or danger and triggering alerts as needed. This application underscores the potential of AI in enhancing workplace safety.
However, the cornerstone of Videtics’ approach is its unwavering commitment to ethics, particularly concerning privacy. The company adheres to GDPR regulations and employs methods that resemble anonymization. By processing video data on local servers, Videtics ensures that no individual views raw data and only statistical information is used. This methodology eliminates personal data, focusing instead on relevant and privacy-preserving statistical data.
Addressing the often contentious issue of facial recognition, Videtics takes a firm stance against its use, ensuring that its system remains ethical and respectful of individual privacy. Additionally, the company relies on synthetic data for density estimation, further mitigating concerns about personal data use.
Videtics sets itself apart not only through its innovative technology but also through its ethical practices. The in-house handling of data labeling, as opposed to outsourcing, reflects the company’s commitment to data security and quality control. This approach is emblematic of Videtics’ overall philosophy: to revolutionize video surveillance by harmonizing advanced technology with ethical standards.
Videtics offers hope in an industry often criticized for infringing on privacy rights. By prioritizing ethical practices in AI-based video surveillance, Videtics is enhancing the security and efficiency of urban and business environments and setting a new standard for responsible technology use in surveillance.
Original Article: Videtics Offers an Ethical Video Surveillance Solution for Cities and Businesses – DirectIndustry e-Magazine
