Noyb’s privacy complaints lead to Meta’s AI data pause in Europe

Meta has halted its plans to utilize personal data for training artificial intelligence in Europe, according to Ireland’s data regulator on Friday, following privacy complaints lodged against the social media giant.

Last week, the European Center for Digital Rights, also known as Noyb (“None of Your Business”), filed complaints across 11 European countries asserting that Meta’s proposed privacy policy changes could lead to unlawful use of personal data for unspecified present and future AI technologies.

The complaints were triggered by Meta’s announcement to its European users about a forthcoming privacy policy shift effective from June 26. Noyb alleged that Meta intended to employ all user data, both public and non-public, accumulated since 2007, for its AI initiatives.

In response, the Irish Data Protection Commission (DPC) released a statement on Friday acknowledging Meta’s decision to pause its plans. The DPC stated, “We welcome the decision by Meta to pause its plans to train its large language model using public content shared by adults on Facebook and Instagram across the EU/EEA,” following “intensive engagement” between the commission and Meta.

The DPC emphasized ongoing engagement with Meta and other EU data protection authorities on this matter. However, it clarified that Meta’s commitment to pause the AI training plans is not yet legally binding until an official change to the privacy policy is made.

Founder of Noyb, Max Schrems, cautiously welcomed Meta’s decision but underscored that the legal cases filed by the group remain active and unresolved. “The cases we filed are ongoing and will need a determination,” Schrems stated.

Noyb, established in 2018 with the implementation of the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation, has become known for challenging technology giants on privacy issues, often prompting regulatory scrutiny and action.

The development marks a significant pause in Meta’s strategy amidst heightened scrutiny over the use of personal data for advanced AI technologies in Europe, highlighting ongoing tensions between tech companies and privacy advocates in the region.