LinkedIn Under Fire for Scraping User Data Without Consent – Terms Updated After

LinkedIn, the professional social networking platform owned by Microsoft, is under fire for using user data to train its AI models without prior consent or updated terms of service.

This practice, which was quietly implemented, involved leveraging personal data to enhance generative AI features like writing assistance and content recommendations. The lack of transparency has sparked widespread criticism and raised ethical and legal concerns.

A report from 404 Media revealed that LinkedIn began using user data to train its AI models before updating its terms of service. Users in the U.S. were automatically included in this data usage, which many found intrusive due to the absence of explicit consent.

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LinkedIn has since updated its terms to state that user data may be used to “improve, develop, and provide products and services, including generative AI models.” However, this update came only after data usage began, leaving many users feeling misled.

In response to the backlash, LinkedIn introduced an opt-out setting titled “Data for Generative AI Improvement,” allowing users to prevent their data from being used for future AI training. However, this setting does not apply retroactively, meaning data already used in AI training remains unaffected.

• Tap on your profile > Settings & Privacy > Data Privacy > Data for Generative AI Improvement

LinkedIn claims to employ privacy-enhancing techniques, including anonymization and data redaction, to protect user information. Despite these assurances, privacy advocates argue that these measures may not fully safeguard sensitive data from potential misuse.

The data scraping does not affect users in the European Union, European Economic Area, or Switzerland, where stricter regulations like the GDPR protect personal data. This geographical discrepancy highlights complex legal and ethical issues, as LinkedIn applies different standards based on location.

Organizations like the Open Rights Group have called on regulatory bodies like the UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office to investigate LinkedIn’s practices.

About 310 Million monthly active users yeah

— Rachel Tobac (@RachelTobac) September 18, 2024

The debate centers on whether opt-out models adequately protect user privacy compared to opt-in models that require explicit consent. LinkedIn’s data practices are not unique. Companies like Meta and Google have similarly used user data for AI training.

Meta, for instance, resumed scraping user data for its AI models despite past regulatory challenges, while Google has updated its terms to include public data in AI training.

These actions reflect a broader industry trend where tech companies exploit user-generated content to advance AI capabilities. However, the negative public response signals a growing demand for greater transparency and user control over personal data.

Doesn’t appear to be the case for my profile. Maybe because of GDPR issues? Pretty sure they cant auto-opt in europeans

— Philipp Barthel (@PhilippBarthel) September 18, 2024

LinkedIn’s controversy highlights the ongoing challenge in balancing technological innovation with ethical standards and user privacy. As AI technologies continue to advance, companies are increasingly pressured to ensure their data practices are transparent, ethical, and user-centric.

The incident is a cautionary tale for other tech companies considering similar approaches. Transparent communication and prioritizing user consent are essential for maintaining trust.

The industry must align AI development with ethical guidelines to safeguard user privacy and uphold public confidence in digital platforms.

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