Medical experts constantly stress the importance of taking
precautions against COVID-19 by wearing a mask, but law enforcement is anxious
because face masks can effectively block facial recognition systems, according
to a May 22, 2020, Homeland Security intelligence note.
In December 2019 Homeland Security backed off plans to
mandate facial recognition of U.S. citizens in airports when they fly to or
from international destinations, after a public outcry against it. Currently,
citizens can still opt out of facial recognition.
Source: The
Intercept July 16, 2020