The Metropolitan Police Federation has condemned the force's use of Palantir artificial intelligence software as "intrusive", marking a significant split within Britain's largest police service over the controversial technology.
The criticism from the body representing rank-and-file officers highlights growing unease about AI's role in policing. Palantir's software aggregates and analyses vast datasets, linking information from crime reports, intelligence logs and open-source data to identify patterns and inform operational decisions.
The Met has used the technology for several years, arguing it enhances efficiency and helps prevent crime by providing officers with comprehensive situational awareness. Yet the Federation's "intrusive" label reflects deep concerns about the system's impact on civil liberties and privacy rights.
Critics worry the technology creates detailed individual profiles by connecting data across multiple sources, potentially without explicit consent or adequate oversight. This raises fears about algorithmic bias leading to disproportionate targeting of certain communities through predictive policing methods.
The internal police criticism adds weight to long-standing concerns from civil liberties groups including Liberty and Big Brother Watch, who have warned against the creation of a surveillance society. These organisations call for greater transparency and stronger regulatory frameworks governing AI use in public services.
The Metropolitan Police has previously defended Palantir, stating it helps officers make better-informed decisions and improves public safety. However, the Federation's intervention suggests internal debate over the ethical implications of such technologies remains far from resolved, exposing the complex challenge of balancing crime-fighting capabilities with democratic freedoms.