Snapchat collects images, videos, and associated metadata from your camera when you use the app, including content from Snaps and augmented reality Lenses that process your facial features.
This analysis describes what Snapchat's agreement states, permits, or reserves. It does not constitute a legal determination about enforceability. Regulatory applicability and practical outcomes may vary by jurisdiction, enforcement context, and individual circumstances. Read our methodology
Camera and image processing features, particularly augmented reality Lenses that map facial geometry, may generate data that constitutes biometric information under state laws such as Illinois BIPA, creating significant legal exposure.
Interpretive note: The policy describes camera and image data collection but does not explicitly characterize Lens-based facial processing as biometric data collection; the biometric privacy law applicability is inferred from the nature of the technology described and applicable state law definitions.
This new high-severity provision explicitly discloses collection of visual content, metadata, and camera access requirements that were not previously detailed in the privacy policy.
View full change record →When you use Snapchat's camera features including Lenses and filters, Snap collects image and video data that may include facial geometry information; depending on your state, this may qualify as biometric data subject to specific legal protections.
How other platforms handle this
to request that your data be transferred to a third party (data portability)
Your organization may allow you to access and export your data in order to back it up or transfer it to a service outside of Google.
Further, you may take legal actions in relation to any potential breach of your rights regarding the processing of your Personal Information, as well as to lodge complaints before the competent data prot...
"Camera and photos. Many of our services require us to collect images and other information from your device's camera and photos. For example, you won't be able to send Snaps or upload photos from your camera roll without this permission. We may collect information about the images and videos you share, including metadata and the content itself.Excerpt from Snapchat's Privacy Policy
(1) REGULATORY LANDSCAPE: Illinois' Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) requires informed written consent before collecting biometric identifiers including face geometry scans, and provides a private right of action.
Enforcement risk, jurisdiction flags, contract triggers, and due diligence action items.
Search "[your state] attorney general consumer complaint" to find your state's direct complaint form
Ad personalization controls removed. Contact scanning added. Advertiser data partnerships quietly dropped. A timeline of every change.
Get the research letter
Companies change their terms quietly. We read every version and catch what actually changed. One email a week on the changes that matter and what they mean.
Camera and image processing features, particularly augmented reality Lenses that map facial geometry, may generate data that constitutes biometric information under state laws such as Illinois BIPA, creating significant legal exposure.
When you use Snapchat's camera features including Lenses and filters, Snap collects image and video data that may include facial geometry information; depending on your state, this may qualify as biometric data subject to specific legal protections.
ConductAtlas has identified this type of provision across 289 platforms. See the full comparison.
No. ConductAtlas is an independent monitoring service. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Snapchat.