TikTok updates US privacy policy to collect 'faceprints and voiceprints' (but won't explain what the

[SheltieLover]

https://www.theverge.com/2021/6/4/22518435/tiktok-privacy-policy-biometric-data-collection-faceprint-voiceprint

TikTok needs to offer meaningful explanations of the data it’s collecting.

TikTok has updated its privacy policy in the US to notify users that the app might, in future, collect new types of biometric information including “faceprints and voiceprints.” But when reached by The Verge, TikTok was unable to explain what types of data these terms referred to, or why the app might need to access this information in the first place.

The company’s privacy policy was updated on June 2nd, as spotted by TechCrunch. (An archived version of the old policy can be read here.) The new policy lays out in some detail the ways in which the TikTok app now has permission to analyze users’ content.

Snip

The new privacy policy is more explicit that the app can now collect biometric data — that is, the measurement of physical characteristics, including the aforementioned “faceprints and voiceprints.” The policy says TikTok will seek consent from users before collecting this information, but only when it is required to do so by the law. As TechCrunch notes, this doesn’t mean an awful lot in the US, given that only a few states (including Illinois, Texas, and California) offer these sorts of legal protections. And indeed, TikTok might think that agreeing to its terms of service constitutes all the consent it will need.

More at link. How about your data, images & voice belong to you?

[Hugin]

1. Ouch, faceprints...

I wonder how long it takes to wash the ink off after they roll your head on the pad?

I know, I know... This is serious.

[Pobeka]

2. I believe that data is being collected right now.

Geeze, it amazes me people don't understand that their personal information is monetized. Any platform that let's you do something for free (especially) is getting something out of the deal. Facebook, twitter, tiktok.

Given Tiktok's connection to China, China's aggressive moves to collect DNA data on USA citizens via companies that are collecting DNA for "geneology" (I believe there was a Frontline show on that), it seems a natural fit to pair up facial and voice data with DNA data. Ultimate goal to market all sorts of stuff directly at consumers -- in particular designer medications.