Disneyland Introduces Optional Facial Recognition to Streamline Entry

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 18:18:00 +0200

Disneyland has introduced facial recognition technology at nearly every entrance to Disneyland and California Adventure parks to verify tickets and prevent fraud. While Disney emphasizes that the system is optional and that biometric data is deleted after 30 days, privacy experts warn that the widespread use of facial recognition normalizes surveillance and could pose security risks. Guests are photographed at entry points, and these images are converted into unique numerical identifiers to match previously submitted ticket or annual pass photos. Alternative entrances are available for those opting out, though most visitors chose the facial recognition lines, often without full awareness of the policy. Critics highlight risks such as misidentification, particularly among people of color, and potential data breaches. Parents expressed particular concern about the implications for children. Disneyland maintains that the technology improves convenience and reduces ticket fraud, while adhe