Facial Recognition Through the Lens of National Legislations - Greece

ABSTRACT This article explores the deployment and regulation of facial recognition technology (FRT) in Greece, with comparative references to Cyprus. It outlines the practical use of FRT in public security, law enforcement, and private institutions, highlighting controversial projects such as iBorderCtrl and enforcement actions like the Clearview AI fine. Despite the lack of a comprehensive national framework, the legal basis for FRT relies primarily on GDPR, Law 4624/2019, and Presidential Decree 75/2020. The study critically examines Greece’s shortcomings in transparency, accountability, and data protection, emphasizing the urgent need for alignment with the EU’s forthcoming Artificial Intelligence Act. The analysis demonstrates how the absence of clear legal safeguards raises concerns over fundamental rights, privacy, and democratic oversight.

KEYWORDS Facial Recognition Technology - GDPR - Predictive Policing - Data Protection - Artificial Intelligence Act - Surveillance Law

TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. Introduction. – 2.1. SECTION I. Deployments. – 2.2. SECTION II. Rule of Law. – 2.3. SECTION III. Perspectives for the Implementation of the AI Act. – 3. CYPRUS.