Google has added a feature that allows users to access their accounts by recording a video selfie. Users record a short video by looking at their device's camera and performing simple movements such as turning their head side to side or nodding, capturing their face from multiple angles. During login, this video is compared against the stored sample to verify identity.
The system applies liveness detection to prevent spoofing attempts such as fake photos or deepfake videos. Google verifies that a real human is present by requiring movement during video capture and matching it against the stored example. This process is becoming an increasingly common security standard to block bots and fraudulent content.
While the new method can help users recover access to their accounts, it also raises privacy concerns regarding the collection and storage of biometric data. Google states that the videos are encrypted and protected, and users can delete them at any time.