People who do not want their data to be used to train the artificial intelligence (AI) of tech company Meta only have until Monday to object. The Dutch Data Protection Authority (AP) points this out.
The company will use the data of users of its platforms Facebook and Instagram from Tuesday, May 27 to develop the technology, AP warns. This includes messages, photos, and comments.
The privacy watchdog had previously advised people to object to the use of their data if they are not comfortable with it. “The risk is that you as a user lose control over your personal data,” said Vice-Chair Monique Verdier.
“You once posted something on Instagram or Facebook and that data will soon be in that AI model. Without you knowing exactly what happens to it. And once your data is in the AI model, you cannot simply get it out again.”
You can object via the objection form of Instagram or that of Facebook. You must first be logged in before clicking on the link. AP has checked these forms and determined that they function properly.
Meta has announced that it will not use the data of people who object to train AI. But your data may still end up with Meta via other users who do not object. Tech reporter Rutger Otto wrote about this earlier this month.
AP remains concerned about impact
AP has had “intensive contact” with the Irish privacy watchdog in recent weeks. They are primarily responsible for Meta because Meta’s European headquarters are located in Ireland.
The Irish regulator has explained exactly what additional measures Meta is taking. For example, Meta is building an extra filter to strip data of personal characteristics and sensitive information before this data is used to train AI.
Despite the announced filters, AP remains concerned because the effectiveness and operation of these filters can only be determined once they are used in practice. The authority is therefore urging the Irish regulator to check this.