The New York City subway system, one of the busiest and most iconic transportation networks in the world, has recently embraced the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to combat fare evasion. According to public documents and government contracts obtained by NBC News, surveillance software utilizing AI technology has been quietly implemented in select subway stations, with plans for further expansion by the end of the year.

Fare evasion, the act of avoiding payment for subway rides, has been a persistent issue for the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA), resulting in a significant financial loss. In 2022 alone, the MTA reported a staggering loss of $690 million due to fare evasion. To address this problem, the MTA has turned to AI software developed by the Spanish company AWAAIT. This software aims to identify fare evaders and help enforce the payment of fares by engaging law enforcement agencies.

According to Tim Minton, the MTA’s communications director, the AI system primarily serves as a counting tool to determine the extent of fare evasion and the methods employed by individuals to evade payment. By leveraging the power of AI, the MTA hopes to gain valuable insights into the scale of the issue and develop strategies to minimize revenue loss.

The AI-powered surveillance software was initially tested in New York City in 2020, with subsequent expansions in 2021. As of May, the system was already in use in seven subway stations, according to a report published by the Metropolitan Transit Authority. The MTA expects to introduce the software to approximately two dozen more stations by the end of the year, with plans for further expansion in the future.

While the MTA and city officials have not explicitly acknowledged the use of this surveillance software, public documents, and reports shed light on its implementation and expansion. The ultimate goal is to deploy the system in a substantial number of subway stations, ensuring a comprehensive surveillance network across the subway system.

The AI-powered surveillance software developed by AWAAIT utilizes video analytics to identify potential fare evaders. The software analyzes video footage captured by surveillance cameras installed in subway stations, scanning for individuals who may be attempting to evade payment. While specific technical details of the software remain undisclosed, it is likely that the AI algorithms employed by the system utilize object recognition and behavioral analysis to detect suspicious actions or patterns.

When the software identifies a potential fare evader, it can alert nearby station agents by sending them photos or relevant information via smartphones. This real-time notification system enables station agents or law enforcement personnel to take appropriate action, such as issuing citations or engaging with the individuals involved.

The implementation of AI surveillance software in the New York City subway system has raised concerns among privacy advocates. Some argue that this development contributes to the growing surveillance apparatus in the city, where personal movements are increasingly monitored. With automated license plate readers, data collection on ride-hailing services, and tens of thousands of accessible cameras for the NYPD, the city has become a place where privacy seems elusive.

Albert Fox Cahn, the director of the Surveillance Technology Oversight Project, expresses concerns about the widespread surveillance in New York City, emphasizing the lack of privacy in navigating the city. However, the MTA and AWAAIT have assured the public that the software’s purpose is solely to address fare evasion and that it is not intended for aiding law enforcement activities.

The focus on combating fare evasion through AI technology has sparked debates about the criminalization of fare evasion and its impact on marginalized communities. In the past, fare evasion enforcement has disproportionately affected Black and Latino individuals, leading to allegations of racism within the system.

Enforcement mechanisms, such as ticketing fare evaders rather than arresting them, have been implemented to address these concerns. Nevertheless, critics argue that resources should be allocated towards making public transportation more accessible and affordable, rather than investing in enforcement mechanisms that primarily target low-income individuals.

Molly Griffard, a staff attorney at the Legal Aid Society, emphasizes the need to enhance services and accessibility instead of focusing on enforcement measures. This perspective highlights the importance of balancing enforcement objectives with social justice considerations.

The implementation of AI surveillance software to combat fare evasion in the New York City subway system exemplifies the increasing integration of AI technology in public transportation networks. As technology continues to advance, there is potential for AI to play a more prominent role in enhancing security, efficiency, and revenue management across various transportation systems globally.

While concerns about privacy and social justice persist, proponents of AI argue that it offers valuable tools for addressing complex issues and improving public services. The challenge lies in effectively utilizing AI while ensuring transparency, accountability, and respect for individual privacy rights.

As the MTA expands the deployment of AI surveillance software in subway stations, it will be important to monitor its impact, address concerns, and continually evaluate its effectiveness in combating fare evasion. The intersection of technology, public transportation, and societal considerations will continue to shape the future of AI applications in urban environments.

The adoption of AI-powered surveillance software in the New York City subway system represents a significant step towards addressing fare evasion and enhancing revenue management. By leveraging the capabilities of AI, the Metropolitan Transit Authority aims to gain valuable insights into the scale and methods of fare evasion, ultimately improving the efficiency and financial sustainability of the subway system.

While the implementation of AI surveillance raises legitimate concerns about privacy and social justice, it also highlights the potential of AI technology to address complex challenges in public transportation. Balancing enforcement objectives with social equality and accessibility remains an ongoing task for transit authorities.

As AI continues to evolve and find its place in various industries, including transportation, it is essential to approach the integration of technology with careful consideration for ethical implications and public concerns. The future of AI in public transportation holds promise, but it also necessitates responsible and inclusive decision-making to ensure a fair and equitable urban environment for all.

First reported by NBC.