X, previously known as Twitter, has announced an update to its privacy policy that will allow it to collect biometric data from its users. Subscribers of its “X Premium” service can opt to provide a selfie and photo ID for verification. The policy also permits the collection of employment and educational histories. The motive behind this update is speculated to be related to X’s intention of offering recruitment services.
Key Points:
- X is updating its privacy policy to collect user biometrics, including facial photographs. X Premium subscribers have the option to verify their identity with a selfie and photo ID.
- The platform may also gather users’ employment and educational histories to recommend jobs and share with potential employers.
- The data collection strategy aligns with X’s endeavors to provide “more targeted and individual experiences for users”, positioning it as a rival to platforms like LinkedIn.
- X’s owner, Elon Musk, aims to transform X into an “everything app”, introducing more features and updates to its privacy policy, with plans also in the pipeline to introduce video and audio call features.
- TikTok already collects biometric data in the U.S., emphasizing the growing trend of platforms harnessing personal data for various purposes.
