Body language camera 'most accurate lie-detector'

Following tests at Manchester Metropolitan University, researchers believe it is even more accurate than standard polygraph tests used by the CIA in America.

As it is also much simpler to use – needing just a camera, a laptop computer and no expert to operate it – they hope it could soon be seen in airports, police stations and even job interviews.

Project director Dr Zuhair Bandar said: “We have looked at systems across the world and are convinced that this is the most sophisticated.”

Silent Talker works by spotting thousands of tiny muscle movements, such as in the eyes or face, most of which are considered impossible to fake.

It then analyses those movements for any tell-tale signs of deception.

One example they use is that of poor eye contact being considered an indication of lying.

But researchers claim that some liars often “over-compensate” and end up making too much eye

contact.

The Silent Talker can spot that and compare it with other “micro-gestures” such as eyebrow or facial movements for any inconsistencies which suggest that the subject is lying.

In tests carried out so far, the system has proved to be accurate in more than 80% of cases – compared with a 70% success rate for conventional lie detectors.

Lead researcher Dr Janet Rothwell said: “Silent Talker is producing superior results and is fast, cheap, non-invasive, unbiased and works virtually in real time.

“Statistically it has greater potential but the current results are good enough to aid in many situations, to change a line of questioning, to re-interview someone and such things.”

She added: “The Yorkshire Ripper was interviewed at least five times. I’d like to think that wouldn’t happen with Silent Talker around.”