How Does Facial Recognition Work & Is It Secure? - Okta

30 Jun.,2025

 

How Does Facial Recognition Work & Is It Secure? - Okta

Facial recognition software compares two images that include a person's face. One is relatively recent, and the other resides within a database. Algorithms attempt to make a "match" between the two. When it’s successful, face recognition software could determine a person's identity from a photo.

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What is facial recognition technology?

Facial recognition software uses a database filled with images, an algorithm to compare two items, and user inputs to confirm or deny matches. The goal is to link an image taken with an identity of a person. 

Facial recognition software typically relies on three steps:

  • Capture: A camera collects your image. Sometimes you initiate the photo (by looking into your 's camera, for example), but your photo could be taken without your knowledge.  
  • Modification: Face recognition software measures the width of your eyes, the relation of your eyes to your mouth, and other core features. All of that information is transformed into a digital signature.  
  • Search: Your digital signature is compared to thousands of data points within the algorithm. If the system already knows you, a match is made. The system may also deliver several potential matches, ranked by probability. 

Here's an example of how facial recognition could be used. 

Police were looking for a man wanted in connection with a child abuse case. They had an image of the person, but they didn't know where he was at the moment. A company with a database of 3 billion images stepped in to help. They uncovered a photograph showing the man standing deep in the background. His image was tiny (about half the width of a fingernail). But it was enough for a positive identification. 

Industries that use facial recognition software

We often associate facial recognition software with law enforcement. Police officers use it to spot and apprehend suspects, and photos provide a valid avenue for arrests. But your image could be used in many other ways.

These are other industries that also use facial recognition:

  • Healthcare: Hospitals and clinics could use your image to help you check in or check out of care. You'll get the treatments you need with less paperwork. But some health systems are also experimenting with facial recognition to spot their clients doing unsafe things, such as smoking or skipping their medication doses.  
  • Marketing: Some membership-based organizations, such as gyms, use facial recognition to distinguish frequent users from lapsed customers.  
  • Online security: Your may unlock after you peer into the camera, and it may remain locked if a thief tries the same technique. Some databases work in the same manner.  
  • Physical security: Your company may have a photographic database of all authorized personnel. If someone unusual appears in an image, the system alerts the staff.  
  • Social media: Companies like Facebook allow users to "tag" their friends in photos. The information could be used to tailor online experiences based on where the person likes to go and whom the person is seen with.  
  • Travel: Your mugshot could place you on a no-fly list. If you attempt to board an airplane, the authorities will know. 

As facial recognition software grows more ubiquitous, this industry list may grow.

Face recognition drawbacks

Facial recognition could keep unauthorized or criminal activity in check. But it's not a perfect form of security. 

The software relies on a database of images, and it's only as accurate as the data it's fed. If the dataset includes mostly white, male people, the system will struggle to correctly identify women and minorities. This could lead to false-positive identifications and unfair arrests. 

The system could also violate your privacy. Most of us expect a degree of anonymity when we're moving through our daily lives. If a system is always photographing us and keeping track of where we go, that could be seen as a violation of trust.

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Opting out of facial recognition

You can't trademark your face and keep companies from photographing you. But there are steps you can take if you're concerned about privacy.

Try these three steps:

  1. Opt out when you can. Don't allow Facebook to automatically tag your photos. Don't allow Google to do the same. If you're given the chance to keep your face out of a database, take advantage.  
  2. Pay attention at the voting booth. Some local legislators are fighting back against surveillance, and they're not allowing the technology to creep into everyday life. If you agree with this stance, find a candidate who supports privacy protections.  
  3. Safeguard your privacy. Ensure that your system security protects you from intrusion. Don't allow people to dig into photos you'd like to keep private.

Facial recognition does have some benefits. For example, at Okta, we help customers deploy multi-factor authentication. Sometimes, that means we advise them to ask their employees to show their faces before they can access sensitive information. Follow the steps we've outlined above to keep your face safe. 

References

What if Facial Recognition Technology Were in Everyone's Hands? (August ). Slate. 

Facial Recognition Is Everywhere. Here's What We Can Do About It. (July ). The New York Times. 

Why Ubiquitous Facial Recognition Tech Is a Game Changer. (August ). TechRepublic. 

How to set up Android face recognition - Asurion

Fast Fix

  1. Go to Settings > Security or Biometrics and security, depending on your device model.
  2. Look for Face recognition or Face unlock.
  3. Follow the onscreen instructions to add your face.

Have you ever fumbled around in the cold, ripping off your gloves so you can quickly accept an incoming call? Well, you don't have to anymore. Android phones now have advanced face recognition technology, offering a more secure and convenient way to unlock your device. Whether you're setting up a new or just looking to get the most out of a new feature, you're in the right place. 

At Asurion, we help you get the most out of your tech. Whether we're helping you find a lost or stolen or change your Android lock screen, our experts offer 24/7 tech care to millions. Here's our guide on how to set up Android facial recognition.

Understanding Android face recognition

Android face recognition is a biometric technology that uses your unique facial features to limit access to certain actions, like unlocking your or making a payment, on your . By scanning and analyzing specific points on your face, this technology can accurately verify your identity in seconds. It's a seamless blend of security features and convenience, ensuring that only you can access your device—all with just a glance.

The benefits of using face recognition on Android

Facial recognition on Android devices is more than just keeping unauthorized users out. It's about simplifying your digital experience. Here are a few benefits:

  • Quick access. Unlock your faster than you can type a password.
  • Enhanced security. Your face is unique to you, making it a secure key to your device.
  • Convenience. Unlock your device or pay for groceries without the need for complex passwords—all you need is your face

How to set up face recognition on your Android device

Setting up facial recognition is straightforward: 

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  1. Go to Settings > Security or Biometrics and security, depending on your device model.
  2. Look for Face recognition or Face unlock.
  3. Follow the onscreen instructions to register your face. This usually involves positioning your face within a designated area on the screen and slowly moving your head to capture different angles. 
  4. Once your face is registered, you can select when and how face recognition is used. You can use it to unlock your device, authorize purchases, and sign in to apps.
  5. After setting up face recognition, review any additional settings that might enhance your security. This could include requiring a fingerprint sensor after face recognition or setting up a secondary lock method, like a PIN or pattern.

Tips for using face recognition

  • Regular updates. Update your face data periodically, especially if your physical appearance changes significantly, like changing your facial hair or getting glasses. 
  • Clean your camera. Clean your front camera for the best face recognition performance.
  • Be mindful of lighting. Face recognition works best in well-lit conditions. Be mindful of this when setting up and using the feature.