LinkedIn will train AI with your data: object!

LinkedIn plans to utilize user data from the European Union to train its own AI models, sparking privacy concerns among users. This move mirrors a similar decision by Meta earlier this year, raising questions about how tech giants are using personal information to develop commercial AI products. Users are urged to object to this data usage before November 3rd to prevent their information from being incorporated into LinkedIn's AI systems. The data collection includes profile details like name, photo, job experience, and skills, along with public content such as posts, articles, and comments. LinkedIn's approach is based on an "opt-out" system, meaning user data will be used for AI training unless explicitly disallowed. Once the data is in the system, there is no apparent way to remove it. Users can opt-out by going to their settings, selecting "Data privacy", and then adjusting the "Data for improving generative AI" setting. This development highlights the ongoing tension between AI innovation and individual privacy rights, especially regarding how digital platforms use user data. The situation impacts every EU user, especially if they are concerned about how their data is used. It is a prime example of how large tech companies are navigating (and possibly circumventing) data privacy regulations, like GDPR. The deadline for objection is fast approaching, so LinkedIn users are encouraged to act quickly to safeguard their data. After November 3rd, their data will be integrated into the AI systems, and the option to remove it could be unavailable. This situation indicates a need for more transparency and user control over data within these platforms.