The deadline imposed by Meta is June 26th, 2024. Thanks to pressure from the European Data Protection Organization – Noyb and other entities, this new use of user data for Meta’s AI training has been halted for now in Europe. It is still not completely clear what will happen, but I recommend filling out the form and expressing your opposition.
How to oppose it?
To oppose the use of your Instagram photos and Facebook data by Meta AI for AI training, follow these steps:
- Go to your Instagram/Facebook profile.
- Tap on the three horizontal lines or dots (menu icon) to open the menu.
- Scroll down and select “About”.
- Then click on “Data Policy”.
- A new window will open. Tap on “Right to Object” in the first section of text at the top.
- Fill out the required fields:
- Country
- Email address
- Reason for objection. You can use this text:
I object to the use of my personal information by Meta for the development and improvement of artificial intelligence (AI) systems. This objection is based on several grounds, which I detail below:
- Invasion of Privacy: The use of my personal information, including posts, photos, captions, and messages, for AI development violates my right to privacy. This data is shared with the expectation of personal and limited use within Meta’s social platforms, not for broad AI training purposes.
- Lack of Explicit Consent: I do not recall giving explicit and informed consent for my data to be used in AI development. Using my information without clear and direct consent undermines data protection principles and user autonomy.
- Potential for Misuse and Harm: The use of my personal data in AI systems can lead to unintended consequences, including biased algorithms, data breaches, or misuse of sensitive information. This not only jeopardizes my personal security but also undermines trust in Meta’s commitment to protect user data.
- Irreversible Impact: Once my personal information is used to train AI models, the process is irreversible, and the impact is permanent. This persistent use of my data may continue to affect me in unforeseen ways, long after my initial objection or even potential withdrawal from Meta’s services.
- Implications with Third Parties: The fact that my data may continue to be processed if it appears in shared content by others is particularly concerning. This creates a situation where I have little to no control over my data, despite efforts to protect my privacy.
- Therefore, I request that Meta cease the use of my personal information for AI development and take appropriate measures to ensure that my data is used only in accordance with my privacy preferences and rights.”
7. After completing the mandatory fields, submit the form.
Once you submit the objection, you should receive a confirmation email from Instagram/Facebook with a verification code. Enter this code on Instagram/Facebook to verify your objection.
Later on, periodically check your emails to see if your objection has been accepted.
This process ensures that your objection is formally recorded and processed regarding the use of your data by Meta for AI training purposes.