Since last week, the parent company of Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram has once again asked for permission to use your data for AI training. What has changed? And how do you refuse if you don’t feel like it?
Almost a year ago, users were already getting the message that Meta wanted to use their data for AI. That was not a simple yes/no question, but a form in which the company mainly suggested that Meta had the right to use your data, but that you could object. That approach was criticised, after which the data collection was paused.
Is it different now?
No. Meta has clarified its plans to regulators, saying its current and previous approaches are legal. So it’s not collecting more or less data, it’s being re-offered.
I already declined last year. Do I have to do this again?
No. ‘We respect all objection forms that we have already received’, says Meta in a response to Data News. Anyone who refused last year does not have to do so again.
What do I need to put there to make my objection valid?
You don’t have to use legal terms or specific words. In principle, filling in ‘I don’t want this’ is sufficient. You don’t have to argue why Meta shouldn’t be allowed to use your data for AI.
My profile is completely private. Does Meta still collect my data for AI?
In principle, no. Meta’s current request is about posts and comments that are public. Posts that you have made privately or for a selection of your own friends will not be used.
Keep in mind that Meta still uses your data for advertising purposes. Even if you are not on Facebook or Instagram much, Meta tracks your online behaviour. If you visit a site with a like button or another integration with Meta, that visit is linked to your profile. The company also knows which people you often contact on WhatsApp. The content of the messages is private.
Can I use Meta’s AI services if I refuse to share my data now?
Yes. Meta does not differentiate in its services between people who do or do not agree to share their data.