Face blurring – definition
Face blurring is a data privacy technique that digitally distorts the facial area in images or video by applying effects such as Gaussian blur or pixelation to prevent individual recognition. It supports GDPR compliance and enables on-premise and AI-enhanced secure processing of visual data.
This process helps mask biometric identifiers while allowing the rest of the image context to remain intact.
Tools used in face blurring
AI-powered detection technologies automatically locate faces and apply smoothing or pixelation filters. Such tools operate on-premise or through cloud services, benefiting from machine learning to improve accuracy and efficiency. Correctly performed blurring is irreversible due to the element of randomness introduced by the algorithm.
Benefits of face blurring
Face blurring prevents unauthorized identification, allows legal usage and publication of recorded materials, and simplifies regulatory compliance related to personal data protection.
Risks of face blurring
Incomplete or faulty blurring may leave the identity partially exposed. Additionally, sophisticated reconstruction techniques can sometimes partially reverse blurring effects. Continuous quality control is required.
Examples of using face blurring
When sharing video evidence, the faces of uninvolved bystanders are blurred to ensure their privacy protection under applicable laws.