LinkedIn has suspended the use of UK user data to train its artificial intelligence (AI) models after concerns were raised by a regulator. The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) expressed its satisfaction with LinkedIn’s decision to pause on using UK users’ information.
The career-focused social networking site, owned by Microsoft, had quietly allowed users around the world to opt into their data being used to train its AI models. However, the ICO raised concerns about this practice, prompting LinkedIn to halt the use of UK users’ data for this purpose.
“We are pleased that LinkedIn has reflected on the concerns we raised about its approach to training generative AI models with information relating to its UK users,” said the ICO’s executive director, Stephen Almond.
Many big tech firms, including LinkedIn, are increasingly turning to user-generated content on their platforms as a valuable source of data for training AI tools. Generative AI tools, such as chatbots and image generators, rely on vast amounts of text and image data to learn and improve their capabilities.
LinkedIn emphasized the importance of giving users control over their data and has provided a way for UK users to opt out of having their information used to train its AI models. The company believes that users should have the choice about how their data is utilized.
While platforms like LinkedIn aim to enhance user experience and provide valuable services through AI tools, they must navigate regulatory requirements and privacy concerns. Meta and X (formerly known as Twitter) have also faced challenges in using user-generated content to develop their AI tools in the UK and EU due to strict privacy rules.
The ICO will continue to monitor developers like Microsoft and LinkedIn to ensure that they are safeguarding UK users’ data rights. LinkedIn will likely need to undergo a similar process as Meta before it can resume using UK users’ data to train its AI tools.
As the use of AI tools becomes more prevalent in various industries, maintaining trust and respecting privacy rights are crucial aspects that developers must prioritize. The ICO’s oversight aims to ensure that companies like LinkedIn uphold these principles while leveraging AI technology to enhance user experiences.
