The Detection and Deterrence Value of Mass Thermal Screening during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

This article critiques the role of mass screening thermal imaging systems (MSTIS) during the COVID-19 pandemic, questioning whether such systems were sold for the purpose of restoring consumer and staff confidence at business premises rather than truly limiting the spread of the virus. It concludes that the value of MSTIS in detection and deterrence is flawed and could in fact contribute to wider contagion. While the strengths and weaknesses of artificial intelligence is widely documented, no study before has understood its role from a security in depth perspective, specifically exploring how both detection and deterrence play mutual roles in health crises. In the case of the MSTIS, mixed messaging from government organisations and scientific studies meant that companies sold thousands of units and, to this day, are able to carry on selling such systems.

These assertions are based on a series of evidence obtained via meta-data analysis. The consequences of companies selling what have proved to be defective systems on the spread of the COVID-19 virus is impossible to measure. The article finds that that ‘slow and careful’ thermal screening is more effective in detection and deterrence, and their use should therefore be encouraged.