Wearing a 4.75 Million Won Silicone Elderly Mask to Commit Theft... Growing Calls for Sales Restrictions in China

Mask costing up to 25,000 yuan (approx. 4.75 million KRW) made in 1 month
Low-sensitivity facial recognition system also passed without issue

Photo by China E-commerce Capture

Chinese media outlets reported on the 2nd that calls are growing louder to restrict the sale of silicone masks after a man disguised with a silicone mask was caught committing thefts in China.

Recently in Shanghai, China, a man wearing a silicone mask disguised himself as an elderly person and broke into four households. The perpetrator stole valuables worth more than 100,000 yuan (approximately 19 million KRW). The police apprehended the suspect the next day and recovered all the stolen items. It is reported that the suspect stated, "Before committing the crimes, I purchased elderly silicone film and TV masks online to disguise myself."

In this regard, voices within China are increasing to restrict the sale of silicone masks distributed online. Silicone masks are used as props in movies or plays, or for individuals to cover scars. Searching for "silicone mask" on Chinese e-commerce platforms reveals many related products. Prices range from tens to thousands of yuan, and high-end products can even bypass low-sensitivity facial recognition machines.

Custom-made masks based on photos match actual human faces by more than 90%. They are reportedly capable of passing facial recognition systems used for commuting. Prices can reach up to 25,000 yuan (approximately 4.75 million KRW). The production period is about one month.

One silicone mask seller told Global Times in an interview, "You just need to send 3D scan measurements or head and face dimensions, along with 360-degree face photos." The problem is that sellers do not require buyers' identity information or the intended purpose of use.

Police officials have conveyed through multiple media outlets that the frequency of criminals using silicone masks for disguise is increasing. However, Zhao Zanling, a lawyer from a law firm in Beijing, said, "Making masks using other people's photos without consent constitutes a violation of portrait rights," but added, "On the other hand, it is difficult to prohibit legitimate uses such as covering scars or movie props." He emphasized, "E-commerce platforms need to strengthen supervision and strictly investigate sellers of such items."