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Facebook and Instagram Wish to Utilize User Data for AI Training: What You Need to Know
In a move that has raised eyebrows, Facebook parent company Meta announced its intention to use European users' publicly accessible data to train artificial intelligence (AI). The training is slated to begin on May 27, with Meta arguing that the AI needs to better understand and represent European cultures, languages, and history.
The planned AI training encompasses a wide range of user data from individuals aged 18 and above, including profile information, photos, reels, stories, comments, likes in public groups, and avatars. According to the Meta AI initiative, personal chats on WhatsApp, also owned by Meta, and Facebook Messenger messages are not part of the public information.
Confusion has arisen due to alleged chain letters circulating on Facebook, stating users would have to pay a monthly fee and post their objections. However, it's essential to note that there's a grain of truth in this misinformation: Facebook does intend to use public user content for AI training, involving both Facebook and Instagram.
To object to the use of one's data, users can follow the steps outlined by the consumer center on its homepage. The objection must be submitted before May 27, 2025; after this date, user data will be made available for use by both Facebook and Instagram. The consumer center advises that it is not possible to withdraw one's consent retrospectively, and data protection experts have criticized the short deadline.
If your data is used, it may be employed for personalized advertising, product development, and behavioral analysis. It is unclear whether Facebook can refuse users' objections, but users can file a complaint with the Berlin data protection officer if necessary.
Users are encouraged to review their privacy settings and set posts to private to prevent them from being used for AI training. For comprehensive information, Meta has provided an updated objection form accessible across European jurisdictions. Keep an eye on updates from Meta and data protection authorities regarding any changes to these processes.
Data-and-cloud-computing technology plays a crucial role in Facebook's AI training initiative, as they aim to utilize user data from a variety of sources, including social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. This extensive dataset will be used in entertainment, personalized advertising, and product development.
