LinkedIn updates privacy policy after training AI models on user data

LinkedIn has updated its privacy policy after it was revealed that the platform used user data to train AI models without prior notification. This opt-out toggle, available only to U.S. users due to stricter EU data privacy rules, allows LinkedIn to use personal data for training AI models aimed at enhancing writing suggestions and post recommendations. LinkedIn admits that these models could also be trained by other providers, such as Microsoft.

The company stated that data collected includes user interactions, posts, language preferences, and feedback. Although LinkedIn claims to use privacy-enhancing techniques, the lack of initial transparency has drawn criticism. Users can opt out of this data use via LinkedIn’s settings, but this won't affect data already used for training. The Open Rights Group has called for an investigation, emphasizing the need for opt-in consent to protect data rights.

Source: TechCrunch