How AI is Completely Undermining Facial Recognition

Facial recognition technology was long touted as the solution for access control, identity fraud, and digital security. But those days are over, says Jake Moore, former cybercrime specialist with the British police. On September 10 at Cybersec Netherlands, he holds up a mirror: “Identity is becoming a fragile concept.”

As part of this summer security series, we’re previewing Cybersec Netherlands with the visions of several security experts and keynote speakers. This year, the event will take place on September 10 and 11 at the Royal Jaarbeurs Congress Center in Utrecht.

Jake Moore’s keynote—currently global cybersecurity advisor at ESET—is titled “Facing Reality: Hacking Facial Recognition.” He will not only show how easy it is to identify people in real time using smart glasses, but also how artificial intelligence (AI) can be used to bypass systems that are supposed to ensure safety. In short: the technology is more vulnerable than anyone previously imagined.

In a live demonstration at Cybersec Netherlands, he will show how he managed to fool a bank’s facial recognition system using only publicly available software. “AI is here to stay,” Moore says. “Crime is evolving at an impressive speed. Expect the unexpected.”

Bypassing Camera Systems

The highlight of his presentation will likely be when Moore adds himself to a high-security watchlist—only to then walk past the surveillance system undetected. Not using deepfakes, but with AI that outsmarts the system’s logic in ways never before imagined.

For Moore, the conclusion is clear: technology is evolving faster than our ability to comprehend it. “I love technology,” he says, “but it’s advancing faster than we can control. And as technology accelerates, cybercrime accelerates with it.” His field experience makes him keenly aware of trends—but also pragmatic: companies must adapt, keep evolving, and never sit back.

“Seeing is no longer believing,” Moore states. The old certainty that biometrics mean ‘ourselves’ is rapidly crumbling. “In a world where AI can mimic our voice, our face, and even our movements, identity becomes a fragile concept.”

As cyber attacks continue to threaten today’s tech landscape, this event is the premier platform for seasoned cyber security professionals and innovative start-ups to exchange knowledge and tackle cybersecurity challenges together. Organizations across all sectors will discover strategies to boost cyber resilience and safeguard critical assets. Don’t miss this chance to strengthen your cyber defenses.

Simultaneously with Cybersec Netherlands, the Data Expo takes place in Hall 12—the perfect spot for additional knowledge, insights, and inspiration in the field of data.