A hoax claiming that sharing a specific message could prevent Meta from using users’ images for AI training has misled over 600,000 people, including celebrities like James McAvoy and Tom Brady. Despite the viral spread of this misinformation, Meta has clarified that sharing the message does not protect users’ data, and individuals can manage their privacy settings through legitimate options provided by the platform.
A recent hoax has gained significant traction, with over 600,000 individuals, including numerous celebrities, falling for a false claim that sharing a specific message would prevent Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, from using their images to train artificial intelligence. This misinformation stems from a June announcement by Meta, which stated that it would utilize users’ public posts, including comments and Instagram stories, for AI training purposes. The announcement sparked considerable backlash from users concerned about their privacy.
The hoax gained momentum when a post circulated claiming that by sharing it, users could deny Meta the right to use their information. This message has been shared extensively, leading many to believe they could protect their data simply by reposting it. However, Meta has clarified that sharing this message does not constitute a legitimate objection to the use of public information for AI training, and users’ public data remains subject to Meta’s policies.
The viral nature of the hoax has been amplified by the involvement of high-profile figures, such as actor James McAvoy and former NFL star Tom Brady, who shared the misleading post. Their endorsements contributed to the rapid spread of the misinformation, highlighting how influential celebrities can impact public perception and behavior regarding privacy issues on social media platforms.
The origin of the hoax can be traced back to a post that appeared on Facebook on September 1, which has since evolved into various versions that continue to circulate. The situation underscores the challenges of combating misinformation, especially when it is propagated by well-known personalities who have large followings.
For users genuinely concerned about their privacy, Meta provides options to manage their data. Individuals can navigate to their privacy settings to opt out of having their public information used for AI training. This serves as a reminder that while misinformation can spread quickly, there are legitimate avenues for users to protect their online presence.