Viral AI Actress 'Talking Tilly' Service Requires Face Scans, Raises Biometric Privacy Concerns

A viral AI actress known as Tilly Norwood, who gained attention after glitching into Chinese during an appearance on Piers Morgan Uncensored, is promoting a video call service called 'Talking Tilly Norwood.' The service, which allows users to video call the AI character, requires every caller to undergo a face scan for 18+ age verification and also claims to sense callers' moods during the calls. The service is scheduled to shut down permanently on September 27, 2026.

BleepingComputer tested the service and reviewed its privacy terms, highlighting the mandatory collection of biometric data (facial scans) and mood-related information. While no cyber exploitation, malware, or attacks are reported, the privacy implications of such data collection are significant, especially given the service's temporary nature and the potential for data retention after shutdown.

The service's shutdown on September 27 means that data collection will cease, but users who have already used the service may wonder what happens to their biometric data. The article does not specify whether data will be deleted or retained, leaving a gap in transparency.

This incident underscores the growing trend of AI-driven services collecting sensitive personal data, often with minimal user awareness. The face scan requirement, framed as an age check, also raises questions about the necessity and proportionality of such data collection, particularly for a service that is short-lived.

Organizations and individuals should be cautious when engaging with AI services that request biometric data, ensuring they understand the data handling policies and the fate of their data after service termination.