Meta Faces Legal Action Over AI Training with EU Users' Data

By Netvora Tech News

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Meta has been threatened with legal action by privacy organization Noyb over its plan to use data from European Facebook and Instagram users to train AI from May 27. The organization has sent a "cease and desist" letter to Meta, demanding it stop the plan unless it receives permission from users. If Meta fails to comply, Noyb is prepared to take legal action.

Meta is relying on a "legitimate interest" basis for processing the data, claiming that it has a justified reason for using the data for AI training. However, Noyb argues that this is not in line with EU data protection regulations. The organization points out that Article 21 of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) allows users to opt-out of data processing, but Meta is limiting this right by only allowing users to object after the training has begun.

Limitations of the "Legitimate Interest" Basis

Noyb believes that Meta's "legitimate interest" basis is flawed, citing a ruling by the European Court of Justice that Meta cannot claim a "legitimate interest" for targeted advertising. "How can Meta claim a 'legitimate interest' in sucking up all data for AI training if it cannot claim a 'legitimate interest' in targeted advertising?" asked Max Schrems, privacy activist and founder of Noyb.

A Simple Solution

Noyb suggests a simple solution: ask users for consent to use their data. The organization notes that it has been designated as a qualified entity under new European regulations, giving it the right to bring legal action against Meta. Additionally, Noyb can start a mass claim to seek compensation for any harm caused. This could cost Meta billions of euros.

International Reaction

A German consumer organization had also threatened legal action earlier, and the Data Protection Authorities of Belgium, France, and the Netherlands had urged users to object to the data processing. Meta's announcement has also raised concerns in the Dutch parliament, with the Consumer Association calling for users to be explicitly asked for consent before their data is used.

Conclusion

The dispute highlights the ongoing tension between data privacy and the use of personal data for AI training. Meta's plan has sparked widespread criticism, and Noyb's legal action may force the company to rethink its approach. As the debate continues, users are left wondering what will happen to their personal data and whether they will be given a genuine choice in how it is used.