How to opt out of allowing Meta to use your profile to train AI as deadline looms

Meta has revealed that it has begun allowing AI to train using people’s profiles but there is a specific way to opt out of it.

The tech giant run by Mark Zuckerberg started the training of its new AI software, known as Meta AI, on Tuesday (May 27).

The AI will be using public content shared by users over the age of 18 in the European Union (EU) in order to enhance its models.

The rollout of the AI technology was finally launched last month after it was originally due to be released in June 2024, but was delayed after concerns were raised about data protection and privacy.

Meta has confirmed that users of Facebook and Instagram within the EU would receive notifications detailing the type of data that the firm is taking from them.

However, this information will only be taken from public data and not private messages, or the public information from accounts of people under 18 years old.

Time is running out to opt out of the AI training on Facebook and Instagram (Matt Cardy/Getty Images)

However, it seems that not everyone is pleased with the move as Austrian advocacy group NOYB (None Of Your Business) revealed that it would be seeking an injunction against Meta.

Max Schrems, who leads the privacy activist group, said: “The European Court of Justice has already held that Meta cannot claim a ‘legitimate interest’ in targeting users with advertising on Facebook.

“How should it have a ‘legitimate interest’ to suck up all data for AI training?”

So, how can you opt out of the AI training? Here is everything you need to know.

How to opt out of Meta AI training on Facebook

To opt out of it on Facebook, you’ll first need to log into your account and select the account icon in the top right hand corner of the screen.

From there, hit Settings and Privacy, followed by Privacy Center. You should be able to see a summary of Meta AI with the second paragraph directing you to click ‘object’ if you want to opt out.

All you have to do is add in your email and click Submit.

Meta AI will be training using social media accounts in the EU (Thomas Fuller/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

How to opt out of Meta AI training on Instagram

For Instagram, simply login and select the three lines at the bottom right corner of the page.

From there, choose Settings, then More Info and Support, followed by Privacy Center.

You’ll find the same prompt about Meta AI, which you’ll be able to click ‘object’ on.

Once again, add in your email where asked and hit Submit.