According to recent reports by 404 Media, some LinkedIn users have noticed a new setting revealing that the social networking platform is using their data to train generative AI models without prior agreeance.
LinkedIn asserts that the data usage aims to enhance features like writing assistance, and while users can disable the feature under the ‘Data for Generative AI Improvement’ tab in their account settings, it appears to be on by default.
“Privacy enhancing techniques” are said to be used to anonymize data and safeguard personally identifiable information, however many will be unhappy that sensitive company information may be used automatically.
LinkedIn is collecting your data for AI
Citizens of the EU, EEA and Switzerland are also exempt from this data use due to stricter regulations and privacy rules.
Despite enabling user data processing, LinkedIn’s terms of service had not been updated to reflect the change. The Microsoft-owned company told 404 Media that it would update its terms “shortly.” Those terms have now been updated accordingly.
A LinkedIn spokesperson told TechRadar Pro in an email:
"We’re making changes that give people using LinkedIn even more choice and control when it comes to how we use data to train our generative AI technology. We’re introducing new tools with AI that benefit all members by default while also making sure that those who have specific privacy preferences have an easy way to opt out. People can choose to opt-out but they come to LinkedIn to be found for jobs and networking and generative AI is part of how we are helping professionals with that change.
At this time, we will not be enabling training for generative AI on member data from the European Economic Area or Switzerland, and will not provide the setting to members in those regions until further notice."
However, user data processing doesn’t stop there. LinkedIn also uses other machine learning tools for functions like personalization and content moderation. These are also on an opt-out basis, with a separate Data Processing Objection Form required.
While LinkedIn has now updated its terms of service, the late disclosure and clarification have raised privacy and transparency concerns, with users seemingly unhappy about the implementation of a significant change without proper notice.
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