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LinkedIn sued for using user data for third-party AI training

The plaintiffs are seeking damages of $1,000 per affected user.

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Image: LinkedIn (edits: KnowTechie)

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The sourcing of training data for AI has been a contentious issue, with companies defending their use of publicly available internet content as “fair use.” 

They argue that AI models transform the original data, creating new and legally distinct outputs. However, the durability of this defense under long-term legal scrutiny is uncertain.

Recently, Microsoft-owned LinkedIn has faced allegations of a more controversial practice: sharing private user data for AI training purposes

LinkedIn sued for user data misuse to train AI models

A California lawsuit accuses LinkedIn of distributing user data, including direct messages, to third parties without clear notification or consent from users. 

According to reports by the BBC, LinkedIn allegedly introduced a new privacy setting that defaulted users into a program allowing their data to be shared for AI training. 

Although LinkedIn updated its FAQ to inform users about the option to opt-out, the lawsuit claims that opting out would not prevent previously shared data from being used.

The lawsuit argues that these practices violate the Stored Communications Act, which protects the privacy of electronic communications. 

It further alleges that LinkedIn demonstrated a “pattern of attempting to cover its tracks,” suggesting deceptive behavior in implementing these policies. The plaintiffs are seeking damages of $1,000 per affected user.

LinkedIn has denied the claims, with a spokesperson stating that the lawsuit’s assertions are false and lack merit.

However, the case highlights broader concerns about user privacy and consent in the AI training process. 

Critics argue that companies must ensure transparency and give users meaningful control over their data use.

This lawsuit also highlights the ongoing legal and ethical debates around AI data sourcing and raises questions about corporate responsibility in protecting user privacy. 

If the allegations are proven, the case could set significant legal precedents for handling user data in AI development, especially when it involves sensitive, private information.

What are your thoughts on this lawsuit? Do you think LinkedIn should face heavy punishment for such misuse of data? Tell us your thoughts in the comments, below, or ping us via our Twitter or Facebook.

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Ronil is a Computer Engineer by education and a consumer technology writer by choice. Over the course of his professional career, his work has appeared in reputable publications like MakeUseOf, TechJunkie, GreenBot, and many more. When not working, you’ll find him at the gym breaking a new PR.

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