Google has begun testing an optional feature that asks users to take a video selfie to verify their identity when signing into their accounts, according to reports. The feature is not mandatory, and users can still use traditional sign-in methods.
The video selfie verification is part of Google's ongoing efforts to improve account security and reduce reliance on passwords. Similar technologies have been used by other platforms for identity verification, though privacy advocates have raised concerns about biometric data collection.
Google has not publicly announced a widespread rollout of this feature, and it remains unclear how many users are currently seeing the option. The company has previously tested other biometric methods, such as fingerprint and face unlock on Android devices.
Users who opt for the video selfie method would likely have their facial data processed to confirm their identity. Google's privacy policy states that such data is handled securely, but specific details about storage and usage have not been disclosed for this test.
