Meta Faces GDPR Action for Using European Data in AI Training
The European privacy organisation noyb has sent a cease and desist letter to Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, over its use of European users’ data for training artificial intelligence systems. The letter alleges that Meta processes personal data without a valid legal basis, violating the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). This action highlights the increasing scrutiny of AI development practices under EU data protection laws, emphasizing the need for companies to comply with strict rules when handling user data.
Meta’s AI training reportedly involves large-scale data processing that includes personal information from European users without their explicit consent. According to noyb, this practice breaches several GDPR provisions, including the principles of data minimization and purpose limitation. The watchdog demands that Meta immediately stop using European data for AI training unless it obtains proper consent or demonstrates another lawful basis for processing. Failure to comply may lead to further legal actions, including potential fines.
The Verbraucherzentrale NRW, a German consumer protection organization, has also sought an injunction against Meta to halt the unauthorized data processing. This legal step reinforces the pressure on Meta to adhere to GDPR standards and protect user privacy. The case underscores the growing tension between technological innovation and data protection, as regulators and consumer groups push for transparency and accountability in AI development.
