The UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has released a sweeping new strategy aimed at promoting trust and transparency in the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and biometric technologies. Titled “Preventing harm, promoting trust,” the strategy outlines how the ICO plans to support responsible innovation while safeguarding people’s rights.
AI and biometric tools, such as facial recognition systems, are increasingly shaping how services are delivered and decisions are made. But public skepticism remains high. According to recent research, 54% of adults worry facial recognition may infringe on civil liberties, and 64% fear employers will rely too heavily on AI during recruitment.
“Realising the opportunities of AI depends on public trust,” the ICO stated. “Without transparency and fairness, that trust breaks down—and so does responsible adoption.”
The strategy sets clear priorities. The ICO will introduce a statutory code of practice for AI and automated decision-making (ADM), offer targeted guidance on the training of generative AI models, and monitor high-impact use cases such as facial recognition in policing and ADM in public services. It will also intervene with enforcement actions when necessary to protect individuals from misuse of personal data.
Despite AI’s rapid evolution, adoption remains modest: just 8% of UK organisations currently use AI-driven decision tools involving personal data, and 7% use facial or biometric recognition, according to the ICO’s Data Controller Study.
The strategy also signals a future-focused posture. The ICO plans to scrutinize emerging technologies like agentic AI—systems capable of acting autonomously—and tools that infer emotions or intentions from biometric data. These raise new ethical and legal questions about accountability and redress.
Ultimately, the ICO says its dual mandate is to support innovation while upholding the law. The strategy aligns with its broader ICO25 objectives: protecting vulnerable individuals and enabling sustainable economic growth by reducing regulatory uncertainty around AI.
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If you’re concerned or have questions about how to navigate the UK’s, or any country’s, AI regulatory landscape, don’t hesitate to reach out to BABL AI. Their Audit Experts can offer valuable insight and ensure you’re informed and compliant.
