Casualizing Privacy: Bridging the Gap between Anti-Facial Recognition and Everyday Motives for Sharing

Jacob Logas
Ph.D. Student in Computer Interaction
School of Interactive Computing
Georgia Institute of Technology 

Date: December 1st, 2023

Time:  3:00 pm

Location:
 

Physical: GVU
Virtual: https://gatech.zoom.us/j/91047694579?pwd=OE9BS3E4WWMvNnlQNWxobTYrQjZ2Zz09

Committee
Rosa Arriaga (Advisor) - School of Interactive Computing, Georgia Institute of Technology
Sauvik Das (Advisor) - Human-Computer Interaction Institute, Carnegie Mellon University
Thad Starner
Polo Chau
Annie Anton
Kelley Caine
 

Abstract:
Advancements in computer vision over the past decade have generated an infrastructure for effortless and ubiquitous surveillance through facial recognition. Online users, in turn, face challenges in maintaining anonymity as their faces become tools to index their activities across various social networks. This intrusion into individual privacy not only compromises personal development but also denies individuals respite from normative social attitudes, including those related to political opinions and sexuality.

While previous efforts have sought to provide users with tools to protect their privacy online, these systems are often either underutilized or reserved for extreme circumstances. This limited adoption can be attributed, in part, to a historical emphasis on technical efficacy rather than human factors. My research addresses this gap by focusing on how anti-facial recognition obfuscation design can transition towards casual use, promoting its integration into users' everyday digital interactions.

In the three studies detailed in this document, I approach anti-facial recognition obfuscation with the overarching goal of prioritizing the user. In the first two studies, I emphasize the importance of understanding and addressing user needs, placing their preferences and concerns at the forefront of anti-facial recognition obfuscation advancement. By integrating these considerations, designers can develop solutions that seamlessly integrate into users' daily activities, offering effective protection while aligning with their primary goals. Additionally, designing obfuscation tools that cater to users' motivations, such as image sharing for social interaction and self-expression, facilitates the casual use of these techniques. Ultimately, this research aims to advocate for anti-facial recognition tools that empower individuals to safeguard their privacy in the face of the increasing surveillance prevalent in today's digital landscape.