Clearview AI, a U.S.-based facial recognition company, has been hit with a €30.5 million ($33.71 million) fine by the Dutch Data Protection Authority (DPA) for creating what the watchdog described as an illegal database.
In addition to the substantial fine, the DPA has issued an order demanding compliance, with a potential additional penalty of up to €5 million if the company fails to meet the requirements. Attempts to reach Clearview AI for comment were unsuccessful.
Aleid Wolfsen, chairman of the DPA, emphasized the invasive nature of facial recognition technology, stating, “This is a highly intrusive technology that cannot be used indiscriminately.” Wolfsen also highlighted that using Clearview’s services is a violation of Dutch regulations.
This penalty follows a recent fine imposed on ride-hailing giant Uber by the DPA for transferring European taxi drivers’ personal data to the United States, which contravenes EU privacy laws. Uber has described the fine as unjustified and announced plans to appeal the decision.
