UK Home Office accused of using AI in secret immigration processes

A report by the Open Rights Group (ORG) alleges that the UK Home Office is embedding artificial intelligence across its immigration systems with near-total secrecy. The research claims AI is being used for various tasks, including detecting potential sham marriages, determining the age of asylum seekers, and analyzing the contents of mobile phones belonging to new arrivals.

The technology is also reportedly utilized for border surveillance via live facial recognition, drones, and satellites. Furthermore, AI tools are being used to summarize asylum interviews and prioritize cases through the Identify and Prioritise Immigration Cases (Ipic) tool.

Cross-party MPs and campaigners have raised concerns regarding accuracy and transparency. Reports indicate that AI tools used to summarize interview transcripts have failed basic accuracy tests. Critics argue that the lack of disclosure regarding when AI is used in fundamental life decisions prevents accountability and risks replicating societal biases and discrimination.