Logica CMG says facial recognition software works

The firm installed a system in the Zuidplein Shopping Centre with the aim of identifying shoplifters.

Logica CMG said that the system was connected to the shopping centre's existing CCTV system, and the images were sent to its software, which had a database of volunteers who agreed to be registered as regular shoplifters.

It claimed that 90 per cent of the volunteers were picked up by the system as they strolled round the centre picking up Edam cheeses, clogs and tulips. We made that last bit up.

The mall has 10 million visitors a year and and over 160 shops. Biometric technology will increase the chances of catching thieves, said Zuidplein's manageress, Monique van Geemert.

Logica CMG is, it said, investigating whether its facial recognition system can be attached to PDAs so the system can be used from wherever the security people want. We wonder if Logica CMG could tell us who this young woman is? µ