X [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7], the social media site formerly known as Twitter [2], has recently made updates to its privacy policy. These updates, which will go into effect on September 29, 2023, include changes to the collection of users’ biometric data and the introduction of new features such as video and audio calls.
Description
One of the key changes in X’s privacy policy is the collection of users’ biometric data, including facial images, fingerprints [1] [6], and iris patterns [6]. This data will be collected for safety, security [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [7], and identification purposes [1] [2] [4] [5] [7]. While X has not provided specific details on how it plans to collect biometric information [4], users will have the option to provide a government ID and a picture for identity matching or verification using biometric data [2]. It’s important to note that this update applies to X Premium users who provide consent and aims to combat impersonation attempts and enhance platform security.
In addition to biometric data, X will also be collecting users’ employment and educational history [2] [4]. This information will be used to surface potential job recommendations and serve tailored ads. X has also introduced new hiring features for Verified organizations [2], granting them early access to user data [6]. Furthermore, X plans to utilize publicly available information to train its machine learning and artificial intelligence models [2]. It’s important to note that this only applies to public data and does not include direct messages or private information.
X [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7], formerly known as Twitter [1] [2] [3] [6] [7], has also announced plans to introduce video and audio call features that will work across various platforms without the need for a phone number [3]. This addition will further expand the functionality of the platform and provide users with more ways to connect and communicate. These changes have been made in preparation for the addition of video and audio calls to the app [1]. Other major tech companies [1], including Google [1], Apple [1], and Facebook [1], also collect biometric data for security reasons [1].
Conclusion
The updates to X’s privacy policy have significant implications for user privacy and platform functionality. While the collection of biometric data aims to enhance security, it raises concerns about the potential misuse or mishandling of sensitive information. X’s plans to utilize publicly available information for training its machine learning models also raise questions about privacy and data protection. Additionally, the introduction of video and audio call features expands the ways users can connect and communicate, but it also raises concerns about potential privacy breaches. As technology continues to evolve, it is crucial for companies like X to prioritize user privacy and security while providing innovative features.
References
[1] https://www.techpluto.com/x-updates-its-privacy-policy-to-access-users-biometric-data/
[2] https://thehackernews.com/2023/09/x-twitter-to-collect-biometric-data.html
[3] https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-66679922?atbbcteam=editorial&atptrname=twitter&atcampaigntype=owned&atlinktype=weblink&atformat=link&atlinkid=480FF538-48A6-11EE-83B8-0A38FE754D29&atlinkorigin=BBCWorld
[4] https://www.socialsamosa.com/news-2/x-updated-privacy-policy-collect-users-biometric-data
[5] https://www.wnd.com/2023/09/xs-new-privacy-policy-allows-collect-users-biometric-data/
[6] https://dig.watch/updates/x-modifies-privacy-policy-to-collect-biometric-and-demographic-data-from-premium-users
[7] https://thetechportal.com/2023/09/01/x-to-collect-biometrics-of-premium-users-for-safety-security-and-identification-purposes/
