Meta to train its artificial intelligence models on EU user data

According to a press release, Meta will train its generative artificial intelligence (AI) models on the public content posted by its users in Europe, meaning that Facebook and Instagram user data will be used to train their algorithms starting 27 May 2025, with the photos and public posts by users of both social networks being targeted.

Meta claims it will not use private messages or content from users under the age of 18, because this is personal content that users have not posted online with the idea that it would be used for artificial intelligence purposes. However, the company considers public messages to be legitimate content for training its AI model.

If desired, data collection for Meta AI can be disabled in the Settings and Privacy section of both social media platforms.

Although Meta has since last year been planning to use user data to train AI tools in Europe, there have been numerous objections from European regulators.

The most recent sanctions imposed by European Commission involved a fine of EUR 200 million for Meta’s failure to offer consumers the choice of a service that uses less personal data.

Source: Media article published by La Libre Belgique on 26 May 2025, Bursa newspaper #International / 24 April