LinkedIn will start using user data to train its own artificial intelligence (AI) after November 3. The Dutch Data Protection Authority (AP) warns of privacy risks and urges users to adjust their settings in time.
LinkedIn will use profile data such as names, photos, education details, and work experience to develop its artificial intelligence (AI). Public content like posts, articles, and comments will also be included. Private messages, however, will not be used according to LinkedIn.
According to the AP, the risks are significant. LinkedIn plans to use data dating back to 2003. However, users were unaware when sharing this information that it might later be used for AI training.
AP Vice-Chair Monique Verdier explains: “Once that data is inside an AI model, you lose control over it. It can’t easily be removed and the consequences are hard to foresee. Special categories of personal data, such as information about health, ethnicity, religion, or political beliefs, require particular care. That’s why we urge everyone: adjust your settings before November 3 if you don’t want your data to be used for AI training.”
The setting “Data for improving generative AI” is turned on by default. If you do not want LinkedIn to use your data for AI training, you’ll need to switch it off manually. You can do this via this link or in the app by going to: Settings → Data Privacy → Data for improving generative AI, then toggle the switch off. Make sure to do this before November 3.
