Meta (the parent company of Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp) announced that it wants to use users' messages and images to train AI models. We urge all Instagram and Facebook users to object, and we are more than happy to explain how you can do this.

Meta's generative AI

Meta is developing generative AI. This is a type of computer model that is trained using billions of data points. You guessed it: Meta wants to use the data from billions of people with a Facebook or Instagram profile. Last year, Meta tried to do this as well, but after various complaints, the plans were halted. Meta now claims that the way it wants to train its AI models does not violate privacy laws, while the ruling from the European regulator is still pending.

Meta says it wants to use your data "to improve Meta products." But what exactly happens to your data, and why does Meta need that data now? This remains vague—just like last year. What it boils down to is that Meta wants to use all your photos and messages that you have ever posted on Facebook or Instagram. It's as if someone walks into your house, grabs your photo albums, and walks out again. In the doorway, that person shouts, "I'm just using these for something cool and commercial that I want to develop." It seems clear to us: you don’t want that.

Object!

Here’s how to object:

1. Go to 'settings' in your profile on Facebook or Instagram;
2. Scroll down to 'privacy center';
3. Click on 'object' in the notification at the top;
4. Leave a reason or not (it doesn’t really matter);
5. Click 'submit'.

Important to know: the use of your data is set up as an opt-out. Your data is therefore used by default for Meta's generative AI unless you object. Once your data is in the system, it seems you have no way to have it removed. Ridiculous, of course.