Intelligent Eye-Tracker-Based Methods for Detection of Deception: A Survey

Abstract

Over the last few years, a large number of studies have been conducted on the monitoring of human behavior remaining beyond conscious control. One area of application for such monitoring systems is lie detection. The most popular method currently used for this purpose is polygraph examination, which has proven its usefulness in the field and in laboratories, but it is not without its drawbacks. Technological advances in data acquisition and automated analysis have ensured that contactless tools are in high demand in security fields like airport screening or pre-employment procedures. As a result, there has been a shift in interest away from traditional polygraph examinations toward the analysis of facial expressions, voice, and speech patterns, as well as eye-tracking signals to detect deceptive behavior. In this paper, we focus on the last aspect, offer a comprehensive overview of two distinct lie detection methodologies based on eye tracking, and examine the commonly used oculomotor feature analysis. Furthermore, we explore current research directions and their results within the context of their potential applications in the field of forensics. We also highlight future research prospects, suggesting the utilization of eye tracking and scan path interpretation methodologies as a potential fully functional alternative for the conventional polygraph in the future. These considerations refer to legal and ethical issues related to the use of new technology to detect lies.