Security experts want to know what happens with photos uploaded to viral FaceApp

Russian developers say app is safe

Security insiders are voicing concerns over a new app that millions are downloading and uploading their photos to in order to see what they could look like when they are older.

FaceApp is the hottest new free app on iTunes and it's being billed as a fun way to get a glimpse into your future. But some are wondering if scammers are using it to get a glimpse into a user's life. People want to know what the creators are doing with all of the photos.

It was developed by a team in Russia and security insiders are pointing out the privacy agreement, the one many people probably didn't read when they downloaded the app. It offers little protection to the consumer and doesn't reveal what happens to the images after they're downloaded.

Some are concerned the images could be stored and that the developers have access to a user's browsing history. It could be used as a way to target consumers for advertisers or, as some are concerned, could be used in a malicious way.

The developer said the app is safe and precautions are in place to ensure everyone who downloads it will be protected.

Watch the video above for the full report from Local 4 News at 5.


About the Authors

Hank Winchester is Local 4’s Consumer Investigative Reporter and the head of WDIV’s “Help Me Hank” Consumer Unit. Hank works to solve consumer complaints, reveal important recalls and track down thieves who have ripped off people in our community.

Kayla is a Web Producer for ClickOnDetroit. Before she joined the team in 2018 she worked at WILX in Lansing as a digital producer.

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