UPDATE: TikTok privacy policy updated - biometric data is now up for grabs
Popular social media platform TikTok has released new updates to its privacy policy.
When it comes to social media and reading the fine print when it comes to the usage policy, we can't say that we read everything that we agree to. This isn't ideal, as it's very much like signing on the dotted line when it comes to clicking the box...
So we want to know, do you read the terms of use and conditions before clicking the box or clicking on 'Accept'?
TikTok has updated its privacy policy for users in the US and part of the updates says that now the company is allowed to collect US users' biometric information.
"We may collect biometric identifiers and biometric information as defined under US laws, such as faceprints and voiceprints, from your User Content. Where required by law, we will seek any required permissions from you prior to any such collection"
Read more: Google Photos changes storage policy
Business Insider asked TikTok if they had already begun collecting users' biometric data and they did not respond. It has, however, been revealed that the new language (policy updates) are included in a section entitled, "information we collect automatically", which could mean that the collection process has already begun.
This is only applicable to TikTok users in the United States at the moment, but there's no telling when or if it will come to South Africa. But it's a big eye opener to the way the platform will collect data from users and whether this data will be sold to independent companies.
Read more: WhatsApp new policy in force from today
"In February, TikTok paid $92 million to settle a class-action lawsuit in Illinois over allegations that it violated the state's biometric data privacy law," Business Insider reports.
As per the Business Insider, President Joe Biden's administration has not yet taken a position on the future of TikTok for Americans.
Can we then say that this popular social platform's days may be numbered? Time will tell...
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