LinkedIn's Data Usage for AI Training Exposed: What You Need to Know and How to Opt Out!

In a shocking revelation, LinkedIn has acknowledged that it is utilizing user data to train its generative artificial intelligence models, prompting concerns over privacy and consent among its vast user base. Despite the platform's assertion that data collection is intended to enhance services, many users are alarmed by their automatic enrollment in this initiative.

LinkedIn collects a wide range of information when users log in, including insights from posts, frequency of usage, language preferences, and feedback submitted to the platform. This trove of data is primarily used to refine and develop LinkedIn's services, but the automatic opt-in feature has attracted heavy criticism.

Rachel Tobac, the Chair of Women In Security and Privacy, took to social media expressing her frustration: “LinkedIn is now using everyone's content to train their AI tool -- they just auto opted everyone in. I recommend opting out now AND organizations should end auto opt-in practices. It's not okay.” Her sentiments reflect a growing demand among users for greater control over their personal information.

This week, LinkedIn announced updates to its user agreement, which will take effect on November 20. The alterations include clearer guidelines concerning users' data privacy and the introduction of a new opt-out feature for AI model training. In a related video, LinkedIn's Chief Privacy Officer Kalinda Raina emphasized that the company requires user data to bolster both security and innovations within the generative AI landscape.

LinkedIn spokesperson Greg Snapper explained that the service aims to provide valuable support to users, such as helping with resume drafts and crafting compelling profile summaries. However, he reinforced that users retain the autonomy to manage how their data is utilized, asserting that LinkedIn has been transparent about its terms of service.

HERE'S HOW TO OPT OUT OF AI TRAINING!

If you’re concerned about how LinkedIn might be using your data, it’s simple to opt out. Follow these steps on your desktop: 1. Click on your profile avatar in the top right corner. 2. Select *Settings & Privacy*. 3. Navigate to *Data Privacy*. 4. Click on *Data for Generative AI Improvement*. 5. Toggle the feature to off.

For mobile users, take these steps: 1. Tap on your profile avatar in the top left corner. 2. Choose *Settings*. 3. Go to *Data Privacy*. 4. Click on *Data for Generative AI Improvement*. 5. Toggle the feature off.

WHAT DATA IS USED TO TRAIN AI MODELS?

LinkedIn's AI models may utilize content from articles posted by users. For instance, if a user shares an article highlighting mentorship experiences and mentions their mentors, LinkedIn's AI may incorporate these names in writing suggestions. Users can always edit these suggestions before sharing.

However, opting out only prevents future use of personal data for AI training. LinkedIn clarifies that this action does not impact any prior training conducted using existing user data. Notably, the company currently offers this opt-out option to users outside the European Union, European Economic Area, or Switzerland—regions where stricter privacy regulations are in place.

To see what information LinkedIn has collected and stored about you, navigate to: 1. Click on your profile avatar in the top right corner. 2. Select *Settings & Privacy*. 3. Access *Data Privacy*. 4. Click on *Get a copy of your data*.

Amid rising awareness and anxiety about data privacy in the digital age, LinkedIn's practices raise essential questions about user consent and the ethical implications of artificial intelligence developments. As the situation evolves, users are encouraged to remain informed and proactive in managing their online presence. Don’t be left in the dark—take control today!