Meta wants your Facebook data to train its AI — including private chats. Here’s what you should know, even if you are in the Fediverse.
Recently, I received a notification from Facebook: they want to use all my content — posts, photos, even private Messenger conversations — to train their artificial intelligence models.
Although I’m gradually leaving Facebook behind, I’m still there — partly to share things like this, and to encourage others to consider the move too. So yes, this blog speaks from there, but to the Fediverse.
Why does this matter?
Meta is releasing some genuinely useful open-source AI tools. And no, they won’t just start spitting out your exact messages or selfies. So from a tech point of view, it might make sense.
But this isn’t just about innovation. It’s about choice — and consent.
The tricky part: you’re opted in by default
If you do nothing, they treat it as a “yes.” You might get a complex, lawyer-style notice offering you a chance to object. It takes a few clicks, careful reading, and effort to opt out.
Just posting “I don’t consent” on Facebook won’t help. That’s a myth.
What you can do
If you haven’t seen the notification, you can still act: facebook.com/privacy/genai
There, you’ll find the official info — and a form to object. It’s a bit buried, but it works.
Bottom line
This isn’t just about Meta. It’s about setting a precedent for how our data is treated in the age of AI. Watch out, and make your own informed choice.
Also on Mastodon: @ghrasko