Instagram and Facebook – Why meta users should defend themselves against AI experiments with their data

What exactly does it mean when Meta uses my data for its AI?

Meta needs data to train its own artificial intelligence (Meta AI). The billions of user posts on Instagram and Facebook provide an enormous treasure trove of potential training data that Meta now wants to use. All public posts such as postings and photos are used, but not private messages. This does not mean that Meta reuses the entire postings somewhere or that they appear somewhere, but that the postings are included in a very large amount of data with which the AI ​​is then trained.

Through this training, the AI ​​can then give new answers based on the knowledge it has learned from the training data. Every post makes the AI ​​”smarter” and it learns new connections, concepts, words or structures. Due to the EU's data protection regulations, Meta now grants EU citizens the right to object to the use of their data to train the AI.

Felix Beilharz is “one of the leading consultants for online and social media marketing” (RTL) and “one of the best speakers in Germany” (WAZ). The 11-time book author teaches at several universities in Germany and Switzerland, gives lectures and seminars in 17 countries and advises companies on the successful use of digital marketing tools. The influencer analysis platform Favikon ranks him first among the most influential people in digital marketing in Germany.

Where exactly can I find the right to object to the use of my data by Metas AI in the Facebook settings?

The objection form is well hidden in the app settings. On Instagram, the path is “Settings and activities”, “About”, “Privacy policy” and then click on “Right of objection” or follow this link.

On Facebook, the link can also be found under “Settings and privacy,” then “Privacy policy,” and then “Right of objection.” Here is the link.

The objection currently still needs to be justified. However, a simple indication that you are concerned about the AI ​​or do not agree to the use of the data for the AI ​​for personal and professional reasons should be enough for Meta to agree to the objection.

By when do I have to object to the use of data by Metas AI?

Meta actually wanted to start using the data for AI on June 26, 2024. However, following protests from data and consumer protection groups, Meta has put this plan on hold for the time being and will not introduce Meta AI in Europe for the time being. It is currently not known exactly how things will continue. It is also unclear whether the option to object will remain after June 26, 2024. Anyone who wants to take precautions should object now.

How will the introduction of Meta AI impact my Facebook and Instagram experience?

Meta wants to use the training data to train its Meta AI, which can create texts and images, among other things. The AI ​​could also be used to create personalized stickers or filters for stories or reels. An AI chatbot that provides individual answers to all conceivable questions is also intended to improve the user experience at Meta. It is not yet known whether and when these products will be rolled out in Europe.

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