Posting No-Consent Message Cannot Prevent Meta From Using Your Content for AI Training

Beginning on June 26, 2024, Meta will utilize user-generated content to train their AI systems. This initiative aims to enhance user experiences and content moderation (Source). However, this has sparked privacy concerns. A recent chain message alleges that users can prevent Meta from using their content for AI training by posting a specific statement.

Social Media Posts

A message has been circulating on Meta platforms, such as Instagram and Facebook. It claims that by posting a specific message, users can prevent Meta from using their content to train its generative AI platforms. The contents of the message are as follows:

“I own the copyright to all original images and posts created by myself and submitted to my Instagram account and therefore DO NOT consent to @instagram @meta or other companies using them to train generative AI platforms. This includes all original, past and future posts, stories, and reels in my profile.”

Source | Archive

Source | Archive

Fact-Check

According to the article "Bringing Generative AI Experiences to People in Europe" published by Meta in May 2024, Meta trains its AI using publicly available and licensed information, as well as public posts and photos on its platforms. Future interactions with generative AI features and businesses may also contribute to AI development and improvement. However, the content of private messages is not used for AI training.

In the “Meta’s Rights” Section on Meta AIs Terms of Service page, it states that Meta can utilize content and related details as outlined in its Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. This includes providing and improving services, conducting research, monitoring AI use for compliance with terms and laws, removing content that violates terms or standards, and suspending accounts that violate terms regarding AI use.

Meta’s Privacy Policy Regarding User’s Data Usage:

Users have the ability to control, delete their data, and exercise their rights via Facebook's privacy settings. Meta may retain information for extended periods for specific reasons (Read full policy HERE). Hence, It's important to note that by accepting Meta's services, users are agreeing to their terms, which cannot be altered by user posts.

How To Prevent Meta From Using Your Data To Train Its AI?

Meta has a system in place that allows users to request their data not be used for AI training by filling out this form. However, it's notable that even if such a request is granted, a photo featuring you, uploaded by a friend who hasn't opted out, could still be used. (Source)

Conclusion

Upon our fact-checking, along with information from Meta, confirms that user posts on Meta platforms cannot stop Meta from utilizing their content for AI training. To prevent their data from being used in this way, users must adhere to the procedures set by Meta. Spreading misleading chain messages can result in the dissemination of misinformation and cause confusion.