Google pushes selfie video sign-in, privacy expert warns of biometric data creep
LuizaJarovsky · x · 2026-09-22
Google is prompting users on its homepage to record a short selfie video from different angles as an optional backup sign-in method. The setup page notes the video may also determine whether you're "old enough to use certain Google services."
An optional toggle lets Google use your video to "improve facial recognition, age estimation, and other verification methods that use your physical features or movement, across Google services."
Privacy researcher Luiza Jarovsky recommends avoiding the feature: passwords and 2FA already work, and Google already holds your phone number, location, search history, and email — now it wants a 3D map of your face, expanding biometric data collection.
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