Recently, LinkedIn introduced a new setting, allowing your personal data and content to be used to train generative AI models – without any prior notification. Here’s everything you need to know about this update and how to opt out if you prefer not to participate.
What Is the Generative AI Privacy Setting?
LinkedIn quietly introduced a setting that automatically opts you in, allowing them and their affiliates to use your content and personal data to train generative AI models. This content could include your posts, comments, or any data that you create on the platform. It’s surprising that such a significant change has been made without proper communication.
If you’re in regions like the UK or Europe, local GDPR laws may protect you. LinkedIn has been called out on this practice by the UK watchdog. However, for many users in countries like Australia and the US, this setting has been silently switched on.
For some, this may not be a concern, but for others, this feels like an invasion of privacy. Regardless of your position, it’s important to have the freedom to choose whether your content is used in this way.
How to Turn Off the Generative AI Privacy Setting
Here’s a quick step-by-step guide to ensure your data isn’t used to train generative AI models without your explicit consent:
- Log into LinkedIn and click on your profile photo in the top right corner.
- Navigate to Settings & Privacy from the dropdown menu.
- On the left-hand side, select Data Privacy.
- Scroll down to How LinkedIn uses your data.
- Look for Data for generative AI improvement.
- From here, you can toggle the setting off if you don’t want your data used.
If you don’t have the option available you can still opt out using this form https://www.linkedin.com/help/linkedin/ask/TS-DPRO
Final Thoughts
There’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to this setting. If you’re comfortable with your content being used to improve generative AI models, feel free to leave it on. However, if you want to safeguard your work and have full control over how your data is utilised, take a moment to turn it off.
Stay informed, and always take the time to review changes to privacy settings across your platforms. LinkedIn may not always announce these updates, but with a quick check, you can ensure your online privacy remains in your hands.
Michelle J Raymond is the Founder of B2B Growth Co and has made her mark as the world’s leading authority on LinkedIn Company Pages, offering comprehensive strategies and training to brands eager to harness LinkedIn for business growth through thought leadership, content marketing or social selling techniques.
With 20+ years’ experience in B2B sales, and almost a decade of social selling on LinkedIn, Michelle stands out for her significant LinkedIn contributions as the co-author of two globally acclaimed books: “Business Gold,” the first book exclusively dedicated to LinkedIn Company Pages, and “The LinkedIn Branding Book,” and her insightful podcast Social Media for B2B Growth.
Follow her YouTube channel @MichelleJRaymond for helpful how to’s.
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