Snapchat is making use of its “Lenses” photo and video filtering technology to create a facial recognition database for law enforcement agencies. But, the claim seems to be nothing less than yet another tech rumour.
Snapchat’s rotating toolbox of image filters, called Lenses, enables users to manipulate photos and videos to humorous effect, as seen in these examples:
Cute and innocent though it may appear, the feature has become the target of conspiracy claiming that Snapchat’s owner, Snap Inc., uses it to collect facial recognition data that it allegedly stores and shares with law enforcement agencies.
We’ve found examples of such rumors, which we’d share for you to see:
you guys are all swooning over the snapchat filters… And The FBI is getting the most extensive facial recognition library ever
— TEENWOLF (@TEENWOLFREMIX) October 3, 2015
when you realize all the snap chat filters are really building a facial recognition database ☕️🐸
— B.o.B (@bobatl) April 16, 2016
However, the company flatly denied it:
Contrary to the claims of this frivolous lawsuit, we are very careful not to collect, store, or obtain any biometric information or identifiers about our community.
Nonetheless, it’s definitely a claim that can be made use of by the agencies, and with the snap fever increasing around the world – it”s surely not difficult to start. But then again, that’s my personal opinion, let’s see what the feds have to decide on it.
