The New York City Transit Authority (MTA) is exploring the possibility of using artificial intelligence to "predictive prevention" crime and dangerous behavior on the subway, The Verge reports.
MTA Safety Director Michael Kemper said the agency is testing artificial intelligence-based technologies "to sense potential issues or problematic behavior" on subway platforms.
"If someone is acting out, irrational… it could potentially trigger an alert that would trigger a response from either security and/or the police department," he explained during an MTA safety committee meeting, emphasizing that a police response could come "before waiting for something to happen."
Kemper says that "AI is the future" and that the MTA is already working with technology companies to explore what systems could work on the subway. However, he would not disclose which companies are working with them or how they will use AI.
MTA spokesman Aaron Donovan clarified in a statement to the media that the system will not use facial recognition. He said it will focus on analyzing behavior, not identifying people.
In 2023, the MTA has already implemented AI to track ticketless riders on the subway, specifically when, where, and how most ticketless rides occur. Meanwhile, in the UK, an algorithm is currently being developed that will be able to predict murders using the personal data of people who have previously committed crimes.