Social media is currently flooded with AI-generated Ghibli-style images, thanks to OpenAI’s ChatGPT 4o. From Facebook to Instagram and X, users are enthusiastically sharing their AI-transformed pictures. Many are even generating animated versions of their family members and children. However, few realize that by uploading these images, they are unknowingly handing over their facial recognition data to AI companies.
AI Is Collecting Your Face Every Day
The risk goes far beyond just Ghibli images. Every day, we provide AI companies with our facial data—whether it’s unlocking our phones, tagging photos on social media, or granting camera access to apps. Once uploaded, these images are scanned and stored, creating unique facial recognition profiles. Unlike passwords or credit card numbers, facial data cannot be changed if compromised.
Ignoring the Risks Could Be Dangerous
Indians, like many others, often overlook these security risks. Incidents like the Clearview AI controversy, where the company allegedly created a massive database by scraping over 3 billion images from social media and news sites without consent, highlight the dangers. Similarly, in May 2024, the Australian company Outabox suffered a data breach, exposing 1.05 million facial scans, driving licenses, and addresses. Victims reported cases of identity theft and mistaken identity.
Even FRT (Facial Recognition Technology) systems used in stores to prevent theft have become targets for hackers. Stolen biometric data is sold on the black market, fueling scams like synthetic identity fraud and deepfake creation.
The Billion-Dollar Business of Facial Recognition
Facial Recognition Technology is a booming industry. According to Statista, the market is expected to reach $5.73 billion in 2025 and grow to $14.55 billion by 2031 at a CAGR of 16.79%. Tech giants like Meta and Google have faced allegations of using user photos to train AI models without explicit consent. Websites like PimEyes allow anyone to track individuals online using just their pictures, increasing the risk of stalking and cybercrimes.
How to Protect Your Facial Data
To safeguard your identity:
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Stop uploading Ghibli-style and other AI-generated images.
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Avoid sharing high-resolution photos on social media.
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Use PINs or passwords instead of face unlock on devices.
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Demand transparency from governments and tech companies about how they use biometric data.
While these measures offer temporary protection, the real solution lies in government regulations. Stricter laws are needed to ban unauthorized facial recognition use and regulate AI-driven data collection. Until then, every selfie uploaded online remains a potential risk.