Meta’s AI is in the spotlight. As the tech giant deploys new AI tools in Europe, users are pushing back to protect their data. Credit: El Editorial, Shutterstock
The tech giant behind Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp is taking another bold step into the world of artificial intelligence. This time, personal data is part of the plan.
After months of prediction, Meta has begun rolling out new AI features across European platforms. But, in addition to shiny tools and smart suggestions, there is much less attractive reality. Meta plans to train AI models using your public data, whether you like it or not.
For European Union users, this raises serious questions about consent, transparency and digital privacy. The company has already started sending emails to users about changes and notifies them that they will begin collecting information from interactions that will help improve AI (posts, comments, captions, etc.).
But there’s a catch: you can say no. Meta offers a way to provide objects to users. And while it’s not broadcast exactly, this process is surprisingly easy once you know where to look.
How you opt out will protect your personal data from meta AI
Meta claims that data collection only includes “published” content, but that does not mean it is harmless. Once information is fed into an AI training system, it loses control over how it is used, stored, or interpreted. Meta may use commented posts and photos displayed, even if they have not given express permission. If someone else shares them.
And even if you opt out, there are loopholes. Meta, named after the AI, says that it may process certain information about you, like the photos you are tagged or the photos mentioned in someone else’s post. In short, you opt out of restricting meta access, but don’t stop completely.
Still, that’s better than nothing. An agreement to reject pressures the company to offer clearer options and forces conversations about user rights and how tech companies process our data.
A quick guide to opting out of Meta AI within 1 minute
If you receive an email from Meta about AI and data usage, you will have a link to the “Right to Object” form. Click to visit a simple page explaining your changes. Scroll down and press “Object”. It’s finished. It’s not necessary, but you can also add a short description.
After sending, you will receive a follow-up confirmation email. Read: “We respect your objections.” Make sure your data is no longer used for AI training. At least not directly.
Meta also launches a new section in the Privacy Center, explaining how the generator AI system works and what kind of data is collected. But for many users, concerns aren’t about transparency. It is about the principle of controlling your own digital footprint.
So, if you don’t want to turn your social media life into machine learning fuel, now is the time to take action. It’s just a click – and it may be the most important thing you make all year round.
