Privacy watchdog urges Instagram users about Meta’s AI plans

The Dutch privacy watchdog Autoriteit Persoonsgegevens (AP) is urging Instagram and Facebook users to make sure to formally object if they do not want parent company Meta to use their posts to train artificial intelligence systems.

If users do not register an objection by 27 May, Meta will automatically begin using their texts, comments and photographs to develop AI tools.

“There is a risk that you, as a user, will lose control over your personal data,” AP deputy chairwoman Monique Verdier said. “Whatever you have posted on Instagram or Facebook will be in that AI system without you knowing what is being done with it.”

Users can register their objection by filling in a special form available on both Instagram and Facebook.

The AP said that while Meta is responsible for complying with privacy legislation, it is concerned about the company’s broader plans — and those of other large social media platforms — in the field of AI.

It also questioned whether Meta’s opt-out approach is legally sound. The agency is currently in talks with the Irish and European privacy regulators about the issue.

In 2024, the Irish privacy authority warned Meta about its proposed use of European user data, which led to a delay in the company’s decision to begin AI training with that information.