As photographers, our images are more than just pictures; they are the culmination of our creativity, time, and passion. Sharing these works on platforms like Facebook and Instagram allows us to connect with a broader audience.
However, it’s crucial to understand that Meta, the parent company of these platforms, may use publicly shared content to train its AI models. If you’re concerned about your photographs being utilized in this manner, you have the right under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) to object.
Steps to Formally Object to Meta’s Use of Your Data
1. From Instagram Profile Page go to Settings and Activity at the top right. (On Facebook Menu, find the Settings & Privacy > Privacy Center.)
2. Scroll Down and click Privacy Centre.
3. Scroll down At Privacy Topics and select AI at Meta.
4. Scroll Down and click Information that you’ve shared on Meta Products and Services.
5. Here is the Objection Form. Scroll down, add your email and state your objection (optional).
Example: “As a photographer based in the United States of America, I object to the use of my images and personal data for AI training by Meta. I do not consent to my work being utilized in this manner.”
6. After completing the form, click “Submit.”
You should receive an email from Meta confirming receipt of your objection. Be sure to check all folders, including spam, for this confirmation.
Request to Remove Your Data for AI Use in Third-Party Apps
You should also consider objecting to third parties using your personal data for AI development because it raises significant concerns about privacy and control over your information. Even if you don’t use Meta products directly, your data can still be collected and used by third-party apps to fuel AI systems, which may not align with your preferences or interests.
By objecting, you retain the right to protect your personal information from being leveraged without consent, ensuring it isn’t misused in ways that could compromise your privacy or contribute to the development of AI tools you’re not comfortable with. This empowers you to take control of how your data is handled in the broader ecosystem.
Here is the form: https://www.facebook.com/help/contact/510058597920541
Use the Overlai App for extra protection
To further safeguard your images, consider using Overlai, a free mobile app designed to protect creators’ content from unauthorized AI training. Overlai adds an invisible yet robust watermark to your media and records ownership details on the blockchain, ensuring your work is recognized and protected.
Engage with Us
- How do you feel about your images being used to train AI models?
- Have you taken any steps to protect your work online?
- What are your thoughts on the balance between technology advancement and personal privacy?
Share your experiences and insights in the comments below!
