Enhanced computer vision applications with blockchain: A review of applications and opportunities

Abstract

Videos and image processing have significantly transformed computer vision, enabling computers to analyse, and manipulate visual data. The proliferation of cameras and IR equipment has facilitated the collection of valuable information about individuals and their surroundings. These technologies find applications in various domains, ranging from biometric entry cards and high-security clearances to surveillance. These applications form part of the Internet of Things (IoT), forming a centralized network. However, the proliferation of data and its sharing brings challenges related to security, privacy, and storage. Interactions with third-party systems may introduce vulnerabilities. To address these issues, researchers in computer vision have explored the integration of blockchain technology into various applications. This paper presents a comprehensive survey of blockchain applications in computer vision, focusing on image and video data sharing, video surveillance, biometrics, and video integrity protection. The aim is to explore how the blockchain can enhance the security, privacy, and authentication of them. It also discusses tools and techniques employed at the edge to achieve these objectives while highlighting opportunities for further improvements. Overall, this review provides insights into the integration of blockchain and computer vision, advancements, challenges, and future directions in leveraging image and video data in a blockchain-enabled environment.