Multiple hotels across China have suspended mandatory facial recognition for guests who present a valid identity document when checking in, following Shanghai’s recent implementation of targeted regulations.
A representative from a hotel based in the Chaoyang district, Beijing, told the Global Times on Wednesday that guests can just check in with their legal identity documents following verification, noting that facial recognition is no longer mandatory.
Several hotels in Shanghai have displayed reminders, such as “strictly prohibiting mandatory facial recognition for consumers who already present valid identity documents,” China Media Group (CMG) reported on Wednesday.
Mandatory facial recognition is also prohibited for guests who forget to bring their identity documents.
Responsible authorities in Shanghai have recently announced that local hotels should suspend the use of mandatory facial recognition for guests who present legitimate identity documents when checking in. Standardized guidance has also been issued for hotels to follow, requiring hotels to seek approval before requesting facial verification of their guests.