X’s New Privacy Policy Sparks Concerns Over Biometric Data Collection
Starting next month, X (formerly known as Twitter) will be implementing an updated privacy policy that allows the platform to collect users’ biometric data and other personal information. The revised policy, set to take effect on September 29, states that X “may collect and use your biometric information for safety, security, and identification purposes” with the user’s consent.
However, it should be noted that the biometric data collection will only apply to X Premium users, according to information provided by the company to CBS MoneyWatch. X Premium users will have the option to provide their government ID and a selfie to add an extra layer of verification. Biometric data may be extracted from both the government ID and selfie image for matching purposes, aiming to combat impersonation attempts and enhance platform security.
The term “biometric” is not specifically defined in X’s policy, but it generally refers to automated technologies such as facial recognition software, fingerprinting, and iris scanning used to authenticate and verify unique human body characteristics. Stephen Wicker, an expert on data privacy from Cornell University, commented that this announcement is an acknowledgement that X will be adopting similar practices to other social networks, albeit in a more transparent manner.
X’s decision to collect biometric data follows its introduction of a subscription verification model earlier this year, which requires users to submit government-approved identification to receive a blue checkmark on their accounts. This move aims to tackle the issue of bots and fake accounts that plague the platform.
Additionally, the updated policy reveals that X also plans to gather users’ job and education histories. This information will be utilized for job recommendations, sharing with potential employers, facilitating employer searches for candidates, and displaying more relevant advertisements.
Notably, X’s policy does not specify whether these data collection practices will eventually extend to nonpaying users or include other forms of data beyond what can be obtained from government IDs. Furthermore, it does not provide clear opt-in or opt-out options for users regarding biometric data gathering.
It is worth mentioning that X has faced previous challenges regarding its data collection methods. A lawsuit filed in July alleged that the platform fails to adequately inform individuals about its collection and storage of biometric identifiers from uploaded photos.
This announcement from X is reminiscent of the privacy lawsuit faced by Facebook in 2021, where the social media giant agreed to a $650 million settlement for allegedly using photo face-tagging and other biometric data without user consent.
Stephen Wicker remarks that X’s policy update represents an expansion of the ongoing data mining practices of social networks for targeted advertising. While this data collection poses concerns for individuals providing their data, it remains a lucrative source of wealth for those who exploit it.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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