The settlement of the data privacy complaint against Tiktok is the first of its kind. In addition to settling the claim, it also gives the users of the service the power to control how their data is stored. That includes the ability to erase or store their data outside of the United States. This is especially important in cases where biometric data or tracking software is involved.
Biometric data
TikTok users who sued the app over privacy issues can rest easy, as the company has settled for tens of millions of dollars. The settlement covers more than 20 lawsuits filed against the app.
The consolidated suit involved the use of facial filter technology. It also included allegations that TikTok used face recognition to gather biometric data on unposted content. In addition, the app allegedly collected voiceprints from users.
The settlement set the stage for future litigation under the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA). As of right now, BIPA is the only state law to allow citizens to sue for the unlawful collection and use of biometric data.
The settlement has some limitations, however. First, TikTok does not explain why it needs biometric data, or how it plans to secure users' permission. Furthermore, it doesn't define specific terms such as "faceprints" and "voiceprints."
Even if the TikTok settlement were to stand, it's not likely that the company will be able to continue collecting and storing user data in the United States. According to TikTok's Chief Operating Officer Vanessa Pappas, the company's mobile application works on a technical level to prevent the company from retaining user data.
Tracking software
TikTok is a popular video app that has been accused of exploiting user privacy. According to the complaint, the company has been collecting and storing users' data without their knowledge or consent. This is a violation of federal and California laws, including the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act and the Video Privacy Protection Act.
After several lawsuits, TikTok has reached a $92 million settlement. As part of the settlement, the company has agreed to eliminate all data collection on consumers, such as location and biometric information, and avoid sending information outside of the U.S.
Moreover, TikTok will be required to disclose its data-tracking practices. The company also has to eliminate any potential for user data to leak overseas, including to China.
Under the terms of the settlement, TikTok will no longer collect information on draft videos before they are published. Similarly, TikTok will no longer store user location data or biometric information. Additionally, TikTok will not send U.S. citizens' data to servers located in foreign countries.
Erase some data
If you've used the TikTok app before October of 2021, you're not alone. While the company has been a major player in the mobile video market for some time now, it's come under fire for its privacy practices. Specifically, the app collected and tracked users' location via GPS, and was responsible for harvesting users' facial features. Despite these issues, the company has managed to maintain a competitive edge over its competitors, thanks in large part to the aforementioned data collection. Thankfully, TikTok's latest privacy improvements make it a safer and more enjoyable place to spend your mobile video time.
Aside from the obvious (no pun intended) change, TikTok will no longer store your US citizen data outside the country. It has also agreed to train its employees on how to handle user data in an appropriate manner. Finally, it will no longer snag your selfies for its entertainment offerings. With a little forethought and a lot of grit, TikTok could become a privacy-focused unicorn, as well.
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