According to a recent update, LinkedIn apparently used user data for AI training without consent. The platform has now also updated its terms of use. However, users from the EU, EEA or Switzerland should not be affected.
LinkedIn recently made an update that allows the platform to use user data for AI training. That comes from one report of the online magazine 404 Media out. A new function allows parent company Microsoft and numerous partner companies to retrieve user data in order to train AI models.
AI training: LinkedIn uses user data without consent
The problem: LinkedIn is said to have silently adjusted its terms and conditions with the update and automatically activated the function for using user data for AI training. However, the platform has now apparently adjusted its terms of use and users can object to the procedure.
The function is hidden in the settings under the menu item “Data protection“. There you can select the option “Data for Generative AI Improvement“Deactivate using the slider. However, it is currently unclear which data LinkedIn specifically uses for AI training.
All clear for users in the EU
Even if the automatic activation of the function raises data protection questions, there is good news. Because LinkedIn does not use user data to train AI models in this country. This would mean that the platform would violate applicable EU law.
The corresponding option cannot therefore be found in the settings for users within the EU. Users in Switzerland and the European Economic Area also have nothing to fear so far. However, it is still unclear whether LinkedIn can use comments from European users under US posts for AI training.
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The post Without consent: LinkedIn automatically uses user data for AI training by Fabian Peters appeared first on BASIC thinking. Follow us too Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
As a tech industry expert, I am deeply concerned about the recent revelation that LinkedIn has been using user data without consent for AI training purposes. This blatant violation of user privacy and trust is not only unethical but also potentially illegal under data protection laws.
It is crucial for tech companies to be transparent and upfront about how they are using user data, and to obtain explicit consent before using it for any purpose, especially something as sensitive as AI training. By failing to do so, LinkedIn has eroded the trust of its users and opened itself up to potential legal repercussions.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of data privacy and the need for stricter regulations to hold tech companies accountable for their actions. As an industry expert, I urge LinkedIn and other tech companies to prioritize user privacy and ensure that they are always acting in the best interests of their users.
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