X’s Revised Privacy Policy Includes Biometric Data Collection and Job/Education History Tracking
X, formerly known as Twitter, is reportedly in the process of updating its privacy policy. This update will involve the collection of additional data, including biometric information, as well as job and work history.
Details regarding the collection of biometric data are currently limited, but it is presumed that this new data collection will encompass physical attributes of individuals, such as facial features and fingerprints, although the specific methods for capturing this data have not yet been specified.
The primary objective behind this update is to enhance safety, security, and user identification. An example of this enhanced security includes premium members being able to provide government-issued IDs in exchange for an added layer of verification, aimed at preventing impersonation.
It’s worth noting that all of these updates will require user consent, but there has already been some resistance from current users. This resistance is not unprecedented, as X recently faced a class action lawsuit from Illinois residents who alleged that the platform unlawfully gathered, stored, and utilized biometric data.
Regarding the interest in collecting employment and education data, it appears to be less related to security and more aligned with Elon Musk’s vision of transforming X into an “everything app.” One recent step in this ambitious plan is the introduction of the XHiring page, designed to allow Verified Organizations to showcase critical job roles on their profiles and reach millions of relevant candidates organically.
Although X has not disclosed extensive details about the new policy as of now, it is expected to start implementing certain aspects of it on September 29.
