Meta To Pay $1.4 Billion Fine To The State of Texas Over Facial Recognition Privacy Software

For over 10 years, Facebook utilized a tool called “Tag Suggestions”, which made it possible for users to tag photos with names. The feature uses facial recognition software to collect biometrics on users. It essentially runs facial recognition on every photo ever uploaded on Facebook, and this was done without users consent or permission, a violation of user’s privacy.  

In 2022, Texas Attorney General, Ken Paxton filed a lawsuit against Meta, alleging violation of user’s privacy by their facial recognition software. Initially, Meta dismissed the claims as without merit. However, a settlement was recently reached and Meta will pay the State of Texas $1.4 Billion. The payment will be done over a 5-year period, with the first installment of $500 million dues this year.