Walt Disney World guests create records in several ways while entering parks, using resort technology and moving around the property. Disney says those systems serve functions ranging from ticket validation and attraction access to navigation, PhotoPass and security.
At a park entrance, Disney’s Ticket Tag system uses a finger scan to associate a ticket with its user and help prevent it from being used by someone else. Disney says it does not retain fingerprints: the system converts an image of the finger into a numerical value and discards the image. Entry also records that a guest entered that particular park.
MagicBand and MagicBand+ devices can add touchpoints when guests use them at Lightning Lane entrances, for eligible purchases at Disney Resort hotels or with select park experiences. Disney says the bands are not GPS devices and do not continuously transmit a guest’s location. But long-range sensors in select locations can detect a band and determine a guest’s location.
The My Disney Experience app can also use location information when a guest enables location services. Those settings support maps, navigation and other location-based functions, while Bluetooth can help automatically link certain attraction photos to a guest’s account. Guests can review or turn off those permissions, though some features may be less convenient or unavailable and photo linking may be affected if Bluetooth is disabled.
Planning Your Trip
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Disney also says still and video images may be captured on or around its properties. Cameras remain one aspect of visiting the resort that guests cannot realistically opt out of while on property.
Visitors seeking to limit information voluntarily shared can choose not to use a MagicBand, reduce unnecessary band taps and use cash where accepted, gift cards, or debit or credit cards for eligible purchases instead of a band. Park entry and on-property cameras still create records, but adjusting app permissions and choosing how to use optional technology can give guests more control over their connected Disney World visit.
