Meta Pushes Forward with AI Training Using UK Facebook and Instagram Posts Despite Privacy Concerns
Meta, led by Mark Zuckerberg, is moving ahead with its plan to use millions of UK Facebook and Instagram posts to train its artificial intelligence (AI) systems, despite the approach being restricted under European Union privacy laws.
After pausing similar initiatives in June, Meta stated that it has “engaged positively” with the UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) to address concerns. The pause came following an ICO warning to tech companies about respecting user privacy when developing generative AI technology.
While the ICO has not given formal approval, it will monitor Meta’s revised plan, which includes making it easier for users to opt out of having their posts processed for AI training.
Privacy advocacy groups like the Open Rights Group (ORG) and None of Your Business (NOYB) have criticized Meta’s plans. ORG previously accused Meta of making users “involuntary test subjects” for their AI experiments. Both organizations are calling for the UK and EU to block the initiative.
Meta’s plans are still on hold in Europe, where the company has blamed the EU’s strict privacy rules for slowing down AI development. However, in the UK, Meta has confirmed that publicly shared posts from Facebook and Instagram will be used to train AI models. Private messages and content from users under 18 will not be included.
Meta claims that this move will allow their AI models to better reflect British culture and help UK businesses and institutions access the latest AI technology. The company plans to roll out the AI models to more countries and languages later this year.
Stephen Almond, ICO’s executive director for regulatory risk, emphasized the need for transparency and proper safeguards when using personal data for AI training. He also made it clear that Meta is responsible for ensuring ongoing compliance with data protection laws.
