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Can my biometric information be used against me?

Governments and companies increasingly use biometric data, including fingerprints, iris scans, and facial images, but it poses risks to consumers. The Federal Trade Commission warned that such data could reveal sensitive information and attract malicious actors.

States are taking a stand. In 2022, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton filed a lawsuit against Meta, alleging it used facial geometry data and other biometrics without consent. The suit resulted in a $1.4 billion settlement in 2024—the first enforcement of the state’s biometric data protection law. Illinois and California have also enacted laws that regulate the collection of biometric data and protect consumers’ rights.

Story editing by Mike Taylor. Copy editing by Paris Close. Photo selection by Lacy Kerrick.