We’ve asked Clearview AI for comment. Previously, it defended its platform by noting that it relies solely on publicly available information and that its technology isn’t meant for companies. It’s protected by the First Amendment, the company claimed. However, the ACLU has already addressed this by noting that faceprint collection is “not speech,” and that gathering data without permission may still amount to a BIPA violation.
The lawsuit was filed in an Illinois state court and won’t have a direct impact on Clearview AI’s business elsewhere. It could still deal a significant blow if it leads to a statewide ban, however, and might prompt other states to take action.
