Meta Will Use Public User Data to Train AI Models

Meta has shared that from June, all user data on its platforms will be used to train its AI models. This was made clear in their privacy statement. “The data it uses to train its AI models could be things such as posts or photos and their captions,” the tech giant said. This means that with the exception of privately shared messages, all the information shared on Meta’s platforms will be used to train AI. This move has immediately raised privacy concerns.

More recently, Meta added more AI-powered features to its repertoire. Now, users can chat with Meta AI about particular posts and Meta AI will be the default search bar on Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, and WhatsApp. Unfortunately, there is no way to disable it, which frustrates a lot of people.

Users located in the UK and EU are entitled to a “right to object,” which allows them to refuse to share their data with Meta in order to train its AI models. Nevertheless, it’s a complicated procedure that seems deliberately challenging to complete.

Meta has begun emailing users of Facebook and Instagram. Users are informed about the impending policy changes and their right of objection via a message. It reads:

“We will now rely on the legal basis called legitimate interests for using your information to develop and improve AI at Meta. This means that you have the right to object to how your information is used for these purposes. If your objection is honoured, it will be applied going forward.”

How to Opt-Out?

The following actions can be taken by those who want to stop Meta from using their data for AI training:

Go to the opt-out form.
Fill in the form by entering the required information.
Wait for word on whether the request has been processed.

This process may appear simple, but several, like X user Tantacrul have claimed that the design is deceptive because of how unnecessarily complex and obscure it is.

Since users are required to give an explanation for their objection, concerns have been raised about the wording and implications of Meta’s email and notification system. This has sparked questions about whether user privacy will be adequately protected and how seriously these objections will be taken.