Clearview AI develops AI tool to help law enforcement build digital profiles

Clearview AI, a face-recognition firm, is testing an AI tool called InquiryIQ to help law enforcement build detailed digital profiles. The tool, described as an experimental 'analyst assistant,' uses AI to search the web, analyze images, and compile data on a person's employers, aliases, associates, and physical traits. It also uses demographic data to make 'smarter decisions' during searches. Clearview claims the tool is a prototype, not yet available for police use, and is meant to automate tasks detectives already perform. The company disputes claims that InquiryIQ functions as an automated investigator, stating it is designed to assist, not replace, human analysis. The tool's interface includes options for different AI models, including one from SpaceXAI, which has faced scrutiny for biased outputs. Clearview says the model selector is for internal testing, not for police to choose. The company warns that automatically generated data may not be accurate and must be verified by human analysts. Legal experts warn such tools could reduce the friction of surveillance, making it easier for law enforcement to investigate individuals without usual checks and balances. Clearview, which has faced controversy for scraping billions of images from social media, continues to expand its database, now claiming over 70 billion images. CEO Amos Kyler emphasizes the importance of human oversight in the investigative process, stating the system is meant to generate leads, not determine truth. Critics argue AI use in policing raises serious concerns about privacy and the reliability of automated systems.