Mastercard introduces controversial biometric payments that require a face scan

Amid privacy concerns, payments giant Mastercard is rolling out the controversial biometric payment systems, allowing users to pay with the wave of a hand or a smile at a camera.

The payments giant said it is rolling out the biometric checkout programs to speed up checkout time and reduce queues. It also claims that biometric systems are more secure and hygienic than debit and credit cards.

“Once enrolled, there is no need to slow down the checkout queue searching through their pockets or bag,” Mastercard said while introducing the controversial tech. “Consumers can simply check the bill and smile into a camera or wave their hand over a reader to pay.”