Dutch Startup 20Face Secures €1.3 Million for Privacy-Focused Facial Recognition
Enschede, Wednesday, 28 August 2024.
20Face, a Dutch scale-up specializing in privacy-proof facial recognition, has raised €1.3 million from existing and new investors. The company’s technology, used in various sectors including casinos and secure facilities, prioritizes user privacy while offering seamless access control.
Innovative Technology for Privacy and Security
20Face, a spin-off from the University of Twente, has developed a unique facial recognition technology that ensures user privacy while maintaining high levels of security. The technology is designed to provide ‘safe seamless access,’ making it particularly suitable for environments where quick and secure entry is essential. This includes corporate buildings, healthcare facilities, and recreational venues, where the need for efficient and secure access control is paramount.
How 20Face’s Technology Works
20Face’s privacy-proof facial recognition system uses advanced algorithms to identify individuals without storing personal data in a way that compromises their privacy. The system captures facial images and converts them into encrypted data, ensuring that the original images cannot be reconstructed. This approach complies with stringent European privacy laws, making it a reliable solution for organizations that prioritize data protection.
Real-World Applications and Success Stories
The technology has already been implemented in various sectors. Notably, 20Face’s system is in use at 23 locations of FairPlay Casino, where it facilitates quick and secure access for patrons. The company’s Chief Commercial Officer, Frank ter Kuile, highlighted the system’s efficiency, stating, ‘Our technology is ideal for locations where large numbers of people need to be controlled and admitted quickly.’ This implementation demonstrates the technology’s effectiveness in high-traffic environments.
Strategic Partnerships and Future Growth
The recent funding round, totaling €1.3 million, saw investments from existing shareholders like Value Creation Capital and Oost NL, as well as new investor Twinning Participaties. This influx of capital will enable 20Face to accelerate its growth, explore new markets, and form strategic partnerships. Jan Voskamp, a board member at Twinning Participaties, expressed confidence in 20Face’s potential, stating, ‘We are impressed with what 20Face has achieved so far and are convinced that their privacy-proof facial recognition can make a significant impact.’
The Importance of Privacy in Facial Recognition
As facial recognition technology becomes more prevalent, concerns about user privacy and data security are paramount. 20Face addresses these concerns by ensuring that their technology complies with European privacy regulations. This commitment to privacy not only sets 20Face apart from competitors but also builds trust with users and clients who are increasingly aware of data security issues. Matthijs Berkelaar, Investment Manager Tech at Oost NL, emphasized the importance of strict privacy protections in facial recognition technology, noting that ‘Facial recognition requires stringent privacy protection measures.’