Clearview AI Facial Recognition Class Action.
On February 3, Webster Book LLP filed a class action in federal court against Clearview AI over its use of scraped images from the internet in its facial recognition program.
What did Clearview AI do?
Clearview AI “scraped” images from the internet and social media sites in violation of the terms of service of those sites and without the consent of those whose images were taken. Clearview then used those images without consent in its facial recognition software that it licenses to public and private entities in exchange for a fee. Clearview claims it has a First Amendment right to take images of others without their consent and use those images to make a profit.
What are the claims in the Clearview AI Class Action?
According to the class action lawsuit, Clearview violated provisions of the Virginia Code, including a prohibition against using the name, likeness, or image of individuals without their prior written consent. The lawsuit also alleges that Clearview violated the Virginia Computer Crimes Act in doing so. In addition to Virginia, many states prohibit the use of someone’s name or image for profit without the consent of that individual.
What is the Class Action asking for?
The Clearview AI Class Action lawsuit is asking the court for an injunction stopping Clearview from using these images and is also asking for compensatory and punitive damages.
Can I participate in the Clearview AI Class Action?
If the class action is successful, Virginia residents will participate automatically.
If you are from a state other than Virginia and would like to participate in the class action, please fill out the form below.
If your state does not appear on the form below, please do not submit a claim as your state likely does not have protections for misappropriation of your name or image.