Meta has announced that it will use public data, such as photos and videos, to train its artificial intelligence (AI).
This is made clear in the company's privacy policy, where the company states that “the data used to train the AI model could be posts, photos and their captions” – that is, all information shared on the social media platform, except for privately shared messages.
Meta recently notified users about its upcoming AI features. By default, all users' data will be used to train Meta's AI models. Although the company offers a means to opt out, the process is complicated as users must explain why they want to opt out. Nevertheless, Meta reserves the right to reject requests.
“Meta relies on a legal basis called legitimate interest to use your information to develop and improve AI. This means you have the right to object to how your information is used for these purposes, and if your objection is successful, it will apply going forward,” Meta's policy update notice said.
According to X user Tantacrul, this process is purposefully designed to minimize the number of users who file an appeal and follow through.
“I was struck by the design of Meta's new notification informing us that they want to use content we post to train AI models. It is intentionally designed to be very unnatural in order to minimize the number of users who object,” he said.
“I've worked on growth teams running minimal-friction experiments for over a decade, so I know how to streamline experiences. The rule: every additional step you add significantly reduces the percentage of people who will follow through,” he added in the post.
To opt out of having your data trained by Meta's AI models:
1. In the notifications section, look for the notification “We're planning new AI features. Learn how we'll use your information.” This should have been sent to you within the last few days.
2. Click to view the policy update notice. Look for the hyperlinked words “Right to Object” and click on the hyperlink.
3. A new form will appear with all the information your company plans to use for AI training, where you will need to fill out the form by selecting your country, entering your email address, and explaining why you don't want Meta to use your data for AI training.
4. Once you have entered your request and email, the company will send a 6-digit one-time password to your mailbox. The company states that they will not accept your submission until the code is entered correctly, so you will need to fill out the form.
5. You will then receive a confirmation of submission.
