Data Protection

BIPA (Biometric Information Privacy Act)

Illinois law requiring consent for biometric data collection, frequently applied to AI facial recognition.

Definition

The Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) is the most significant US biometric privacy law and has generated substantial AI litigation. Key requirements:

  • Written policy: Public retention and destruction schedule for biometric data
  • Informed consent: Written release before collecting biometric identifiers
  • Disclosure limits: Prohibitions on selling or disclosing biometric data
  • Data security: Reasonable protection standards

BIPA implications for AI:

  • Facial recognition systems collecting "face geometry" require consent
  • Voice recognition capturing "voiceprints" triggers BIPA
  • AI training on biometric data requires compliance
  • Private right of action with statutory damages ($1,000-$5,000 per violation) has produced major class actions

Sources

  • 740 ILCS 14
  • Illinois BIPA