Hoan Ton-That is the CEO of Clearview AI, a facial recognition startup known for its controversial database of 30 billion images. In a statement to TechCrunch, he expressed that it is time for him to start a new chapter in his life, although he will continue as a board member.
Ton- That did not provide details on the reasons for his resignation, which was first reported by Forbes. Following his departure, Clearview AI has appointed two co-CEOs, Hal Lambert and Richard Schwartz, who plan to pursue new opportunities, particularly under the Trump administration. Lambert has a background in Republican politics and is known for launching the MAGA ETF, while Schwartz previously advised Rudy Giuliani during his time as New York’s mayor.
Clearview AI provides law enforcement and federal agencies access to its facial recognition technology, which uses it to identify suspects and locate missing persons. The company has faced numerous privacy lawsuits and fines due to obtaining photos without consent. As of September 2024, Clearview AI has accumulated over $100 million in GDPR fines from data protection agencies in Europe, including those in the Netherlands and France. The company has historically resisted paying these fines and has not commented on whether any have been settled.
Additionally, Clearview AI is involved in a lawsuit with conservative investor Charles Johnson, who claimed he was a co-founder entitled to commissions. Although Johnson dropped his suit, Clearview AI’s counterclaims for defamation and breach of contract are still active.
Ton-That stated that Clearview AI is in its strongest financial position to date, achieving record growth and revenue in 2024. However, the startup has struggled to secure significant federal contracts and remains unprofitable. Investors in Clearview AI include notable figures like Peter Thiel and Naval Ravikant, with the company raising $30 million in a Series B funding round in 2021, valuing it at $130 million.
