Home / Technology / Aussie Driver Fined $661 for Flipping Off AI Camera
Aussie Driver Fined $661 for Flipping Off AI Camera
10 Nov
Summary
- Aussie motorist fined $661 for appearing to give AI camera the finger
- Driver claims he was not using phone, but camera detected a black rectangle on his lap
- Victorian government says AI cameras flag potential offenses for human review
On October 2025, an Australian motorist in Victoria was fined $661 for an unusual encounter with an AI-powered mobile phone and seatbelt detection camera. The driver, who was traveling with a passenger, passed the camera on the side of the road, and to his surprise, later received an infringement notice.
The driver argued he had been wrongly penalized, as the AI-generated image showed no mobile phone in his hands, and both hands were clearly visible above the steering wheel. However, eagle-eyed viewers on social media noticed a black rectangle on the driver's lap, which they claimed looked like a phone.
Under Victorian law, a mobile device cannot rest on any part of a driver's body, even if it is not being held. The driver was ultimately fined for this violation, despite his claims of innocence. The incident has sparked a debate about the accuracy and effectiveness of the AI-powered camera system.
The Victorian government has defended the use of these cameras, stating they are designed to flag potential offenses, which are then reviewed by trained officers before any infringement notices are issued. Between January and March 2025, more than 19,000 Victorian drivers were caught using a phone or not wearing a seatbelt by these AI-powered cameras.
The driver has contested the fine, arguing that the technology needs an overhaul to ensure innocent drivers are not unfairly penalized. The case highlights the growing role of AI in traffic enforcement and the challenges of balancing public safety with individual rights.
