### Apple and Google Penalized in Brazil Over FaceApp
In a notable legal decision, a Brazilian judge has imposed fines of R$19 million (roughly US$3.1 million) on Apple and Google for their involvement in the distribution of the controversial photo editing app, FaceApp. This application has faced criticism due to its dubious privacy policies and alleged unauthorized collection of user information.
#### The Decision
Judge Douglas de Melo Martins ruled that both technology companies played a role in enabling FaceApp to gather sensitive user data without appropriate consent. This verdict is based on the Brazilian Civil Rights Framework for the Internet, which enforces strict rules concerning the management of personal data online. Brazilian legislation prohibits platforms from conducting “extensive and unauthorized collection of personal information” without clear user permission. Additionally, the judge pointed out that FaceApp did not provide a privacy policy or terms of use translated into Portuguese, which is mandatory for apps operating in Brazil.
Apart from the substantial penalty, the ruling requires Apple and Google to provide compensation of R$500 (approximately US$82) to each user in Brazil who downloaded and used FaceApp since June 2020. This compensation is intended to address the potential damages resulting from the app’s data collection practices.
#### Reactions from Apple and Google
Apple and Google both voiced their dissent regarding the ruling. Apple asserts that it does not control FaceApp’s terms of service and privacy protocols, claiming the app is “managed and distributed by a third party.” The company further maintains that the data collection methods were aligned with “international standards.”
In a similar vein, Google argues that its function is restricted to distributing apps via the Google Play Store and contends it should not be held liable for FaceApp’s privacy conduct. Both companies have the opportunity to contest the ruling in court.
#### The Debate Surrounding FaceApp
FaceApp is a highly popular image editing application that enables users to apply several filters and effects to their photos, including aging filters and skin smoothing features. The application has seen significant popularity, especially among younger demographics, but it has also encountered backlash. In 2019, FaceApp faced allegations of storing users’ images on its servers without their permission, raising concerns about privacy and data security. The FBI even described the app as a “potential threat” due to its links to Russia, further complicating its public perception.
Despite the controversies, FaceApp continues to be accessible for download on both the App Store and Google Play, offering a free version in addition to in-app purchases that may reach up to $100.
### Summary
The ruling against Apple and Google underscores the growing scrutiny that tech companies encounter regarding user data privacy, especially in regions with strict regulations like Brazil. As the digital environment evolves, the obligations of app distributors and developers are likely to come under closer inspection, encouraging a wider conversation about user consent and data safeguarding in the technology era.
