SAN FRANCISCO, CA– Today, Common Sense Media CEO James Steyer issued the following statement regarding Facebook's launch of face recognition software:
"At this point, we have to assume Facebook is either totally clueless or ill-intentioned. Month after month, consumers and policymakers have asked for more choice and control over how personal information is used, and here Facebook has yet again automatically enabled a feature for all of its users. Instead of letting users opt-in, Facebook continues to force customers to opt-out. We’re especially concerned about the impact this technology will have on teens on the site – not to mention the 7.5 million underage kids whose faces have been scanned by Facebook without their permission. Kids and teens are always looking for cool new ways to connect, but this system is ripe for misuse and abuse, and could become just another way for kids and teens’ information to be traded and misappropriated online. We’re tired of this arrogant cycle of offend THEN apologize. It’s time for Facebook to treat its users and their privacy with respect, and provide them with notice, choice, and rigorous tools to protect their personal information."
For more information about the Common Sense Media Privacy Campaign, visit www.DoNotTrackKids.org.
About Common Sense Media
Common Sense Media is dedicated to improving the lives of kids and families by providing the trustworthy information, education, and independent voice they need to thrive in a world of media and technology. We exist because our kids are growing up in a culture that profoundly impacts their physical, social, and emotional well-being. We provide families with the advice and media reviews they need in order to make the best choices for their children. Through our education programs and policy efforts, Common Sense Media empowers parents, educators, and young people to become knowledgeable and responsible digital citizens. For more information, go to: www.commonsense.org.
Press Contacts
Marisa Connolly
mconnolly@commonsense.org
415-553-6703
Julia Plonowski
jplonowski@commonsense.org
415-553-6728
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