Can a Single Photo Fool Facial Recognition Lockers? Security Risks Unveiled

1 Photo Tricks Facial Recognition Lockers

Since 2018, Fengchao has used facial‑recognition technology for parcel locker verification, and it now allows users to retrieve packages by scanning their faces. As adoption grows, users increasingly worry about data security and privacy.

Recently, a class‑4 school team in Jiaxing demonstrated that a single printed photo could open a Fengchao locker, even when the photo was taken from a distance with a telephoto lens.

Fengchao responded that the feature was in a beta trial, has been temporarily taken offline, and will be relaunched after improvements.

The company admits that current facial‑recognition accuracy is not 100% and errors can occur, but expects accuracy to improve over time.

Industry analysts stress that facial‑recognition systems collect sensitive biometric data, requiring robust safeguards to prevent misuse and leaks.

2 Facial Recognition Still Carries Risks

Artificial intelligence, especially facial recognition, is now embedded in everyday life, such as smartphone unlocking. Apple’s Face ID uses 3‑D scanning to prevent photo attacks, yet a video showed a child unlocking a mother’s phone, raising doubts about security.

In May, San Francisco passed a ban on facial‑recognition surveillance, becoming the first city worldwide to prohibit its use in public spaces, highlighting societal concerns.

Without transparency and public trust, the security benefits of facial recognition cannot outweigh the privacy intrusions it poses.

As cameras proliferate, many people are unaware when their facial data is captured or how it might be used, underscoring the need for stronger privacy protections as the technology evolves.