A painting went missing 20 years ago. Police tracked it down with the help of AI
Art theft is a global problem and police forces are struggling to keep on top of it. Now they are turning to AI software that snoop out the most cleverly hidden artworks.
TL;DR
- Italian police are using a new AI system called SWOADS to detect stolen artworks.
- SWOADS can identify artworks by matching visual fingerprints, even if they have been altered or disguised.
- Since its introduction, the AI system has helped recover over 300 paintings and statues and more than 165,000 smaller items worth over €203 million.
- The AI system continuously scans online marketplaces and social media for stolen art.
- While AI is a powerful tool, it cannot replace human investigators and legal cooperation.
- Challenges remain, including the AI's struggle with 3D objects, poor training data, and the potential for criminals to also use AI.
- Other countries, including Turkey, France, and Germany, are also developing or using AI for art theft investigations.
- AI is most effective at recovering older, lesser-known pieces, rather than high-profile or recently stolen works.
- The AI helped return a 17th-century painting, stolen 20 years prior and disguised, to its original church.