X Shares User Data to Train AI Models: What You Need to Know
Starting Nov. 15, X, formerly known as Twitter, will allow third-party companies to use user data—including posts, likes, bookmarks, and reposts—to train their artificial intelligence models. This shift follows X’s recent privacy policy update, which automatically opts users into data sharing unless they manually opt-out.
Elon Musk’s X had already been using user data to train its own AI, but now third-party platforms will gain access to this valuable information. This trend reflects a growing practice across social media platforms as companies look to capitalize on AI development by licensing their data.
AI Goldmine: Why Social Media Data Is So Valuable
According to cybersecurity expert Ritesh Kotak, data is at the center of the AI arms race. The more data a company can collect, the more accurate and powerful its AI models become. This explains why platforms like X, Reddit, and LinkedIn are engaging in content licensing deals to share user information with AI firms, helping them create smarter algorithms.
These changes are not without controversy. Many users may be unaware their data is being used to train AI models, and opting out may not reverse the impact if data has already been fed into these systems.
Growing Trend Across Social Media Giants
X isn’t alone in this move. LinkedIn, Meta, Reddit, and others have signed similar content licensing deals with AI companies. For example, Reddit recently made a $60 million deal with Google for user data, while platforms like Stack Overflow and Tumblr have also found new revenue streams by selling their data to AI firms.
This trend is a strategic shift for social platforms seeking revenue in an era of declining ad revenues and increasing competition.
Can You Opt Out of X’s Data Sharing Policy?
Currently, X has not updated its settings to allow users to opt out ahead of the Nov. 15 policy change. Typically, users can prevent data sharing by adjusting their settings under the “data sharing with business partners” option. However, experts warn that once data is integrated into an AI model, opting out may not undo the effect.
As users, this change may leave many feeling their privacy is being exploited without clear consent. If you’re not paying for the service, your data becomes the product.
Source: Swifteradio.com
