Observed Signal · Sep 19, 2024 · Policy Update · Source: Trending Topics · Impact: 4/5 · Sentiment: Negative
LinkedIn Trains AI with User Data Without Changing Terms
LinkedIn, the Microsoft-owned professional network with over one billion users, has admitted to 404Media that it uses user data to train its generative AI products. This practice is not reflected in its current Terms of Service from February 2022, which lack any clause permitting AI training on user data. LinkedIn says the terms will be updated "shortly," but users are currently auto-enrolled and must actively opt out. Several users spotted a new setting indicating LinkedIn is using their data to improve generative AI. LinkedIn has introduced AI features for premium users, including automated post writing and an AI assistant. The article compares LinkedIn to Meta and X, which also train AI on user data but offer opt-out options. Meta has withheld its Meta AI chatbot from the EU over GDPR concerns.
LinkedIn, a major social platform with over a billion users, admitted to training generative AI on user data without updated consent terms, raising significant privacy and GDPR concerns that affect the broader ecosystem of AI and data usage in marketing and advertising.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- LinkedIn admitted to 404Media that it uses user data to train its generative AI products.
- LinkedIn's current Terms of Service from February 2022 do not include a clause permitting AI training on user data.
- LinkedIn plans to update its Terms of Service "shortly" but has not yet done so.
- Users are automatically opted in and must actively opt out of AI training on their data.
- Meta and X allow users to opt out of AI training, while Meta has not launched Meta AI in the EU due to GDPR concerns.
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Microsoft Xbox creates new division for films, series, parks
Microsoft's Xbox gaming division announced the creation of a new business unit dedicated to films, television series, and theme park attractions. The move signals an expansion into entertainment and immersive experiences beyond video games, leveraging Xbox's intellectual property. This strategic diversification is part of Microsoft's broader ambition to grow its media and entertainment footprint, following trends seen across the industry. The new division will focus on developing and producing content based on Xbox franchises, potentially opening new revenue streams for the company. Financial details or a timeline for the division's operations have not been disclosed.
US Government Excludes Microsoft from Visa Program
The US government has barred Microsoft from participating in the permanent residency process for foreign workers with H-1B visas, accusing the company of abusing the program. Vice President JD Vance stated that Microsoft laid off 6,000 American employees last year while benefiting from 6,300 H-1B visa holders. The Department of Labor, led by Keith Sonderling, will not accept new permanent residency applications from Microsoft, as well as several consulting firms and Adobe. This action comes weeks before the midterm elections and reflects the Trump administration's broader criticism of the H-1B program, which it claims disadvantages American workers. Microsoft has not yet responded. The move could impact the tech industry's ability to retain skilled foreign talent.
Outlook to Block MSIX Files as Email Attachments
Microsoft has announced that Outlook will begin blocking MSIX file attachments, a move aimed at preventing malicious distribution through email. The change affects both the classic Outlook for Windows and the new Outlook for Windows, as well as other clients like Outlook on the web. Microsoft's decision comes in response to the increasing use of MSIX files in phishing and malware attacks. The block will be implemented in phases, starting with a controlled rollout and then expanding to all users. The company advises users to use alternative secured methods for sharing such files. This technical update is part of Microsoft's broader security enhancements for its email clients.
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