The Risks of Facial Mapping in Data Aggregation: Beyond Russian Concerns

Whether you are a Russian, British, or American, concerns over the collection of face data through apps like FaceApp should be more globally pertinent than the imaginary fears of a few. As a data aggregator, the value of face data transcends national borders, offering valuable insights into individual behavior, demographics, and interactions.

The Business of Data Aggregation

Data aggregation is a lucrative business, with information pieced together to meet the needs of various buyers. Currently, aggregators can access telecommunication data for geolocation, marketing data to identify behavioral patterns, and even facial mapping data. Facial mapping, in particular, can serve multiple purposes, from identifying individuals to producing deepfake videos. Whether you are dealing with human rights activists or engaging in racial profiling, facial mapping can enhance these efforts.

The Mainstream of Online Security Issues

The current concern over online security is not limited to specific nations or individual apps. The proliferation of data breaches, particularly in high-profile cases like the US elections, has brought these issues into the mainstream. While continuous announcements of data breaches can numb people to the shock factor, the real concern should be about the potential access provided by these data breaches to third parties, including organized crime.

The Importance of 'Leaky Apps'

The issues do not end with the app developers. A poorly-designed app can potentially expose user data to third parties, whether corporate or criminal. This means that the concern is not just about how the developer stores and uses the data but who else might gain access to it. Users should not rely on the assumption that their data is secure just because it is collected by a specific nation's services.

The Need for Digital Hygiene Education

Parents and educators play a critical role in teaching children about digital hygiene, just as they ensure proper dental care. As children explore new apps and tools, parents must explain the importance of security measures and the potential risks associated with downloading new applications. This education is as crucial in today's digital age as teaching children to brush their teeth before bedtime.

The knowledge of digital hygiene should be integrated into comprehensive digital literacy programs. This includes not only understanding the risks but also adopting practices to minimize these risks. By fostering a culture of digital responsibility, we can better protect ourselves and our children from the myriad threats in the digital world.

In conclusion, the risks associated with facial mapping and data aggregation are not confined to any single nation or app. While Russia's espionage is a concern, the broader issue is the potential misuse of data by data aggregators and third parties. Teaching children about digital hygiene and promoting greater awareness of online security are essential steps toward mitigating these risks. The onus is on us all to stay informed and take action to protect our digital identities.