LinkedIn has quietly started using user data to train its AI models, and most users might not even be aware. The platform collects information from profile pages, posts, and other user-generated content to help develop AI-powered features.
What’s Happening & Why This Matters
LinkedIn’s AI Data Collection
Earlier this month, LinkedIn revealed in a low-profile announcement that it is using user data to train its AI models. This includes data from users’ profiles, posts, and any content shared on the platform. LinkedIn clarified that this data helps improve their AI-driven features, such as content generation and recommendations. However, many users may not realize that their data is being used in this way.
The plan raised concerns about privacy and transparency, especially since LinkedIn’s existing terms of service didn’t explicitly mention AI or artificial intelligence prior to these updates. Now, LinkedIn has added language to its User Agreement and Privacy Policy to reflect that it uses user data to train AI models for itself and its affiliates. These affiliates include Microsoft, LinkedIn’s parent company, which has strong ties to OpenAI.
In the U.S., U.K., and other regions, LinkedIn users have their data included by default unless they choose to opt out. However, users in the European Union are automatically excluded from this practice due to stricter privacy laws.
UK Halts AI Data Collection, but U.S. Continues
After receiving concerns from the U.K.’s Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), LinkedIn suspended its data-scraping activities in the country. Stephen Almond, executive director of regulatory risk at ICO, emphasized the importance of protecting privacy rights as AI technology advances. While this marks a win for U.K. users, U.S. users continue to have their data scraped for AI purposes unless they manually disable this feature in their settings.
Some LinkedIn users, particularly in the U.S., have begun speaking out. Ido Banai, founder and CEO of VectorField, argued that users should be compensated if their data is being used for machine learning purposes. “Turn this off!” he urged LinkedIn users, stressing that in an age where AI is rapidly evolving, users deserve more control over how their information is used.
How to Opt Out
If you’re uncomfortable with LinkedIn using your data to train AI models, you can disable this setting in your account. Simply go to Settings > Data Privacy > Data for Generative AI Improvement and toggle off the option.
TF Summary: What’s Next?
LinkedIn’s decision to use user data for AI training is part of a broader trend where platforms leverage user-generated content to fuel AI development. While some regions offer stronger privacy protections, others do not, meaning users should stay informed and take action if they’re concerned. As AI continues to evolve, the debate over data usage and privacy will only intensify, with users pushing for more transparency and control over how their information is used.