FaceApp: a questionable trend in terms of data protection

Viral trend: the FaceApp Challenge

An app from 2017 is currently experiencing a new trend: the FaceApp Challenge is currently indispensable in social media. International as well as German celebrities are posting themselves in an aged state, thus boosting downloads of the app. However, the use of the app is extremely questionable in terms of data protection and should be treated with caution.

What is FaceApp?

The app generates different versions of your own face based on a self-created photo. According to the manufacturer Wireless Lab, based in St. Petersburg, the app uses artificial intelligence to create realistic images. With the help of filters, users can display themselves decades older or find out what they would look like if they were of a different gender. The app has been available for iOS and Android devices since 2017, but since July the number of downloads has climbed to the top of the charts. Numerous public figures have posted pictures from the FaceApp, especially in social networks. Many filters can be used for free.

What happens with my data?

Once users use the app, they automatically agree to the privacy policy and terms and conditions. These state, among other things, that when using the app, the IP address, visited websites, locations and many other user information is automatically stored on servers. Access to mobile devices is also granted automatically and personal data is transmitted worldwide. Even content created by users can be used by the manufacturer for commercial purposes.