Biometric data retention refers to how long and under what conditions a face search engine stores facial biometric data such as photos, face embeddings, and search history. Understanding data retention policies is essential for anyone concerned about privacy when using reverse face search technology. facesearching has a minimal retention policy designed to protect user privacy. For related concepts, see our guide on face search opt-out.
What Data Is Retained and for How Long
Data retention policies vary by face search engine. facesearching's policy is designed for maximum privacy: uploaded photos are deleted immediately after processing. The face embedding generated for the search is temporary and deleted after the search completes. No permanent biometric database of user uploads is maintained. This approach means you can find someone by photo without creating a permanent biometric record. For more on privacy regulations, see our guide on face search and GDPR.
Laws Governing Biometric Data Retention
Several laws regulate biometric data retention. GDPR in Europe requires data minimization and limits retention to what is necessary. CCPA in California gives consumers rights over their biometric data. BIPA in Illinois requires explicit consent for biometric data collection. facesearching's minimal retention policy is designed to comply with these regulations while still providing powerful search capabilities.
Data retention is the difference between a tool that respects your privacy and one that builds a surveillance infrastructure. facesearching chooses the former — delete immediately, retain nothing.