Change This Setting So That Facebook Does Not Use Your Posts For AI

Meta is starting to train its AI models using data from private citizens, if you don't want this to happen to you, take these steps!

Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, has announced a new initiative: training its AI models using data from users. It was recently announced that it will begin using data from European users, despite the challenges posed by EU privacy laws. What happens here could have implications for the U.S. and U.K. 

Previously, Meta had refrained from utilizing European user data for AI model training due to concerns about legal ramifications stemming from Europe's strict legislation. However, in a bold step forward, the company is now going ahead with its plan to integrate European data into its AI training processes.

The decision has not gone unnoticed, with activist groups like NOYB, led by Max Schrems, raising objections and calling on privacy watchdogs to intervene. Nevertheless, Meta remains committed to its goal of enhancing its AI capabilities by incorporating European user data.

Training AI language models relies heavily on vast datasets to improve accuracy and predictive capabilities. Meta acknowledges the importance of understanding regional languages, cultures, and social trends accurately, which necessitates training models on European public content.

Stefano Fratta, Meta's global engagement director, emphasized that the company will prioritize user privacy by excluding private messages and content from users under 18 in its AI training efforts. Furthermore, Meta has taken proactive measures to inform European users about its plans since May 22 and has provided an opt-out option to those who prefer not to participate. Meta is preparing to implement its updated privacy policy on June 26, signalling the beginning of training for its next AI model. 

The company noted that it is not the first to adopt this approach. "We are following the example set by others, including Google and OpenAI, both of which have already used data from European users to train AI. Our approach is more transparent and offers easier controls than many of our industry counterparts already training their models on similar publicly available information," the statement added.