Brazil prosecutor targets Amazon and crypto firm over iris data collection

Brazil's Public Ministry has initiated legal action against Amazon and an unnamed cryptocurrency company for the alleged unlawful collection of iris data from approximately 400,000 individuals. The prosecution highlights concerns over data privacy and the ethical implications of biometric data acquisition.

The companies are accused of gathering this sensitive biometric information without obtaining adequate consent from the affected people. This alleged violation of privacy regulations has prompted a significant legal response from the authorities, emphasizing the importance of user consent in data collection practices.

As part of the legal proceedings, the Public Ministry is seeking R$240 million in damages from the companies. This substantial financial claim underscores the seriousness with which Brazilian authorities are treating the alleged privacy breaches and aims to serve as a deterrent against future violations of data protection laws.