Facebook’s parent company, Meta Platforms, has agreed to pay $1.4 billion to settle a lawsuit filed by the state of Texas regarding the unauthorized capture and use of personal biometric data belonging to Facebook users. The lawsuit, brought by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, accused Meta of using facial recognition technology to collect biometric data from over 20 million Texans without their consent.
This settlement marks the largest amount ever obtained in a lawsuit brought by a single state, as stated by Mr. Paxton’s office. The lawsuit claimed that Meta captured the personal information through photos and videos uploaded to the social media platform. The data was obtained through a feature called “tag suggestions,” which was introduced in 2011 and aimed to make photo tagging easier for Facebook users. However, the feature was discontinued in September 2019.
Under the settlement agreement, Meta will pay the state of Texas over a period of five years, with the first installment due within 30 days of the agreement’s execution. A Meta spokesperson stated that the company is glad to resolve the issue with Texas and looks forward to exploring future opportunities for business investment in the state, potentially including the development of data centers.
It’s important to note that Meta’s agreement to pay the settlement does not constitute an admission of wrongdoing. However, this case highlights the increasing concerns surrounding the capture and use of personal biometric data without proper consent. The Texas lawsuit is significant as it is the first major case brought and settled under the state’s 2009 Capture or Use of Biometric Identifier Act, which prohibits the use of facial recognition software to capture and store data without lawful consent. The law provides for damages of up to $25,000 for each violation.
The unauthorized capture and storage of biometric data can pose significant risks to individuals’ privacy, well-being, safety, and security. The lawsuit alleges that Facebook not only disclosed users’ personal information to other entities but also failed to promptly destroy the biometric identifiers, further exposing Texans to potential harm. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting personal data and holding companies accountable for any misuse or mishandling of such information.
With the settlement reached, Attorney General Paxton emphasizes that any abuse of Texans’ sensitive data will be met with the full force of the law. This outcome sends a strong message to companies that they must prioritize the privacy and consent of their users when it comes to the collection and use of biometric data. It also sets a precedent for future cases related to the unlawful capture of personal biometric information.
Overall, this settlement between Texas and Meta Platforms serves as a significant development in the ongoing conversation about data privacy and the responsible use of biometric data. It demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement to protect individuals’ privacy rights and holds technology companies accountable for their actions. As technology continues to advance, it is crucial for regulations and laws to keep up with emerging challenges to ensure the protection of personal information in the digital age.
