Meta has been using user-posted content, including photos and captions, to train its AI models. This has raised privacy concerns and questions about the company’s data-sharing practices. Meta recently notified Facebook users in Europe about updates to its privacy policy.
The company’s generative AI privacy policy states that it uses information shared on its products and services for AI training. However, private messages are not included. A Meta spokesperson said the notifications were sent to comply with local privacy laws, especially GDPR in Europe.
The changes will start on June 26, 2024. U.S. users did not get notifications, but the same data-sharing policy is already in place. Meta’s AI features have been part of its platforms since September 2023.
At first, users could talk to AI chatbots on Messenger, Instagram, and WhatsApp. Meta recently made its AI the default search bar across all its platforms, letting users interact with the AI based on specific posts.
For users in the UK and EU who want to opt-out, the process is complicated.
Meta’s privacy policy update notifications
Even though they have a “right to object,” the notification design and procedure appear to be intentionally complex to reduce opt-outs.
One user on X (formerly Twitter) criticized the awkward and time-consuming opt-out process. While completely stopping data sharing with Meta requires extreme measures, there are a few ways to limit it:
1. Submit a request through Meta’s help center related to personal information used for AI.
Options include accessing, correcting, or deleting personal data from third parties and filing complaints. These requests are reviewed based on local laws. 2.
Disable “Activity Off-Meta” in settings to see which sites and apps share information with Meta. You can disconnect specific sites, clear previous activity, and manage future data sharing. This will delete data already collected and prevent future data from being shared with third parties.
It’s important to note that Meta’s privacy settings mainly address third-party data sharing, not how Meta uses your data internally for AI training. Still, taking these steps is a good start toward protecting your privacy. We have contacted Meta for more information and will update this story if we receive a response.
