OpenChat, a decentralized chat application on the Internet Computer blockchain (ICP), is planning to implement facial recognition technology to authenticate users and improve social media interactions. Often compared to Discord and Slack, the platform aims to address the issue of multiple accounts and promote responsible online behavior.
Enhancing Online Verification
The initiative aims to tackle the prevalent issue of users operating multiple accounts, a common practice that can skew token farming and airdrop distributions. OpenChat co-founder Matt Grogan emphasizes the importance of “proof of unique humanity,” a concept that could revolutionize how online identities are managed and verified.
Partnership with Modclub for Moderation
OpenChat is collaborating with Modclub, a platform specializing in decentralized content moderation, to trial facial recognition technology. This move is not just about technological advancement but also about fostering a more responsible and less toxic online environment. The partnership will enable OpenChat’s 100,000+ users to report content violations, which will be reviewed by Modclub’s moderators, paid in cryptocurrency for their services.
Balance Between Anonymity and Accountability
Unlike traditional social media platforms, OpenChat uses cryptocurrency addresses and NFTs for user authentication. The introduction of facial recognition for unique human verification is a step towards balancing anonymity with accountability.
Future Implications and User Privacy
Grogan clarifies that not all users will be required to undergo facial recognition verification. However, this feature might become crucial for eligibility in future airdrops and could enhance user reputation on the platform. As OpenChat ventures into this new territory, questions about user privacy and the effectiveness of the technology in diverse scenarios remain to be addressed.
