The ICO warned about the cons of using brains to supervise employees.

According to some data watchdogs, business firms may eventually use “brain monitoring technology” to hire or supervise employees in the future. But the “Information Commissioner’s Office” said that if the neurotechnology doesn’t develop properly, it may cause real insecurity about discrimination.

The first ICO report on “neuro data,” or information from the brain and nervous system, is called Tech Futures: Neurotechnology.

The report examines a number of potential applications for neurotechnology, including workplace monitoring.

It occurs as organisations like Elon Musk’s Neuralink look into new techniques for connecting computers to human brains.

According to the ICO, neurotech is already used in the highly regulated healthcare industry.

Neuralink, which is still far from having a marketable product, is reportedly now worth $5 billion (£4 billion) after receiving approval for human trials of its detachable brain-computer connection.

Research initiatives that can now recognise words and sentences solely from brain scans demonstrate how artificial intelligence is also creating new opportunities. These patients, who are cognizant but unable to move or talk due to locked-in syndrome, may eventually benefit from this.

But in order to address the problems brought up by neurodata, the report focuses on future technologies that might be developed.

According to the ICO, “as staff monitoring grows, the place of employment may routinely implement neurotechnology for protection, efficiency, and recruitment” in a period of four to five years.

Wearable brain monitoring technology may eventually be utilised in schools to gauge kids’ stress and focus levels.

Future customer tastes may be tailored at home using “non-invasive gadgets capable of detecting responses,” according to the ICO.

In one obviously fantastical example, the report imagines a time when neurotechnology-enabled headsets might collect information needed for advertisement targeting.

Additionally, gaming and entertainment are expanding; some games and drones are currently managed by brain-reading equipment.

The ICO is concerned that, if not developed appropriately, the technology can lead to discrimination.