X: Using Biometric Data to Enhance Hiring and Security

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September 1, 2023

X's Ambitious Data Collection Plans: Biometrics, Education, and Job History

X: Using Biometric Data to Enhance Hiring and Security

Are you ready for the future of data collection? X, formerly known as Twitter, has announced some ambitious plans that may change the way we think about privacy. In their new privacy policy, X states their intention to collect users’ biometric data, as well as their education and job history. This move has raised eyebrows and sparked concerns about privacy and security. In this article, we will explore the implications of X’s plans and how it may affect both users and employers. Stay tuned to learn more about this controversial development.

In a recent development, X, formerly known as Twitter, has unveiled an updated privacy policy that includes collecting users’ biometric data, along with job and education history. The changes are set to take effect on September 29, raising questions about privacy and security.

X’s updated policy mentions the collection of biometric information for safety and identification purposes but doesn’t provide specifics on how this data will be gathered. The move is intended for premium users, offering an additional layer of verification by allowing them to submit government IDs and images. This initiative aims to combat impersonation attempts and enhance platform security.

However, the announcement comes in the wake of a proposed class action lawsuit accusing X of wrongfully capturing and using Illinois residents’ biometric data without consent. The lawsuit claims X failed to adequately inform individuals about the collection and storage of their biometric identifiers from photographs containing a face.

In addition to biometric data, X’s policy update outlines plans to store users’ employment and education history. This decision is likely linked to X’s beta feature, allowing verified organizations to post job listings on their profiles. As part of Elon Musk’s vision to transform X into an “everything app,” this move could be a significant step towards reshaping the platform’s role in users’ lives. However, it also raises important questions about data privacy and user consent.

Scenario 1: Enhanced Security and User Trust

In this scenario, X successfully implements its new privacy policy and biometric data collection for premium users. The feature helps improve account verification, reduces impersonation attempts, and enhances overall platform security. Users feel more confident in the safety of their accounts, leading to increased trust in X. This development could position X as a more secure and reliable platform for both users and advertisers.

Scenario 2: Privacy Concerns and Legal Challenges

Alternatively, X’s biometric data collection faces significant pushback from users and privacy advocates. Concerns about data security and potential misuse of biometric information lead to widespread protests and legal challenges. X may be forced to backtrack on its policy changes, facing potential fines and reputational damage. This scenario could result in a setback for X’s ambitious plans to transform into an “everything app” and raises important questions about data privacy in the digital age.

Conclusion

X’s decision to collect users’ biometric data and expand its data collection to include employment and education history represents a significant shift in its privacy policy. The impact of these changes remains uncertain and could unfold in various ways. While the company asserts that these measures aim to enhance security, verify user identities, and offer more personalized services, they also raise valid concerns about privacy and data usage.

The future implications of X’s new policies will largely depend on how well the company communicates and implements these changes, as well as the response from users and regulators. It underscores the ongoing debate between data security, privacy and personal information in the digital age. X faces the challenge of striking the right balance between user convenience and data protection, which will undoubtedly shape its trajectory in the evolving landscape of social media and digital services.

How do you feel about X’s decision to collect users’ biometric data for verification purposes? Do you view it as a necessary security measure or a potential invasion of privacy? Share your insights below.