German Consumer Organization Demands Meta Halt AI-Training Plans

By Netvora Tech News

A German consumer organization is urging Meta to abandon its plans to train its AI models using data from European users. The Verbraucherzentrale Nordrhein-Westfalen (North Rhine-Westphalia Consumer Protection Association) has demanded that Meta halt its plans, citing concerns that the company is violating European data protection laws. Meta had earlier announced its plans to use data from Facebook and Instagram users to train its AI models, starting from May 27, unless users actively object to this use of their data. The German consumer organization argues that this approach is insufficient and that Meta should obtain explicit consent from users before using their data.

According to the organization, Meta's procedure does not meet the legal requirements. The German consumer organization claims that the legal basis Meta is citing is not sufficient, and that users do not have to accept that their personal information, which they have left on the platform over the years, is used for AI training.

Christine Steffen, a representative of the consumer organization, expressed concerns that sensitive information, which is protected under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), may also be used for AI training. She emphasized that users should actively give their consent before their data is used.

The privacy organization noyb, which has been vocal in its criticism of Meta's data handling practices, is supporting the German consumer organization's demands. noyb's founder and well-known privacy activist Max Schrems stated that Meta is intentionally ignoring European laws and prioritizing its commercial interests over the fundamental right to data protection of those affected.

"Meta should simply ask people for their consent. If Meta ignores EU laws, it will have consequences for the entire continent," Schrems warned.

Meta's plans to use data from Facebook and Instagram users to train its AI models have raised concerns about data privacy and protection.
The German consumer organization, Verbraucherzentrale Nordrhein-Westfalen, is demanding that Meta halt its plans, citing concerns about the legal basis and lack of explicit consent.
The organization is threatening to take further legal action if Meta does not comply with its demands.
noyb, a privacy organization, is supporting the German consumer organization's demands and criticizing Meta's approach to data handling.

The controversy surrounding Meta's AI-training plans has sparked concerns about data privacy and protection in Europe, and the consequences of ignoring EU laws.