Steps to Opt Out of Meta AI
If you’re looking to prevent Meta from using your data to train AI on platforms like Facebook and Instagram, you’ve come to the right place.
Recent updates to Meta’s Privacy Policy, effective June 2024, allow the company to use public information from users over the age of 18, including photos, comments, and posts, to enhance their AI tools. If you prefer to keep your data private, you have the option to object to this use of your information. Below are clear steps to guide you through the process of opting out.
Steps to Opt-Out of Meta AI
- Access your profile and choose Settings (gear icon on Instagram or your profile picture on Facebook)
- Select Settings & Privacy, then Privacy Centre
- Click on the highlighted “object” link at the top of the page
- Enter your email address and state your reason for the objection
- Wait for a confirmation from Meta
How to Opt-Out on Facebook
1. Go to the Privacy Centre
First, log into your Facebook account. Navigate to your profile and find the small profile picture icon located in the upper right corner of the screen. Click on it to reveal a dropdown menu, then select Settings & Privacy followed by Privacy Centre.
2. Choose to Object
In the Privacy Centre, you will notice a message outlining how Meta is utilizing public information from users over the age of 18 for AI training. Look for the sentence indicating that you have “the right to object” and click the hyperlinked “object”.
3. Submit Your Objection
You’ll be directed to the “Object to your information being used for AI at Meta” page. Here, it explains the types of data Meta uses to enhance its AI. Take note: the objection only applies to your data, and not to any information posted by others, such as friends’ photos of you. To submit your objection, fill in your Facebook-associated email and briefly describe your reasons for objecting. After completion, click “Submit”.
4. Wait for Confirmation
Once submitted, you must await confirmation from Meta. In many cases, confirmation is received quickly, alongside an email detailing the acceptance of your objection.
How to Opt-Out on Instagram
1. Go to Privacy Centre
Log into your Instagram account and access your profile. Click on the gear icon in the upper right corner to open the settings menu. From there, choose Settings & Privacy, and scroll down to find Privacy Centre under More info and support.
2. Choose to Object
As in Facebook, you will see a notice about how Meta is using public information for AI training. Click the hyperlinked “object” to proceed with your objection.
3. Submit Your Objection
You will once again be taken to the “Object to your information being used for AI at Meta” page. Enter your email linked to your Instagram account, and briefly articulate your reasons for opting out. Click “Submit” once finished.
4. Wait for Confirmation
Similar to Facebook, you should receive prompt confirmation of your objection via a pop-up message and an email response from Meta.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Data Does Meta Use for AI Training?
Meta states that it uses public information from Facebook and Instagram, including messages exchanged with AI. However, it does not engage in scraping your private conversations.
What Purpose Does Meta Use Your Data For?
Meta utilizes your data to enhance and develop generative AI models. This includes improving the functionality of its AI-driven features and services, which support various stakeholders, including researchers and developers.
