Source URL: https://www.theregister.com/2024/10/18/x_train_data/
Source: The Register
Title: X to allow third parties to train their AI models with social media users’ data
Feedly Summary: Another raft of reasons to ponder your social media presence
Elon Musk’s social media mouthpiece X (formerly known as Twitter) has updated its Terms of Service and Privacy Policy to direct disputes to a federal court in Texas and allow third parties to train AIs on user posts.…
AI Summary and Description: Yes
Summary: The text outlines recent changes to X’s Terms of Service and Privacy Policy, particularly concerning user data sharing for AI training purposes. This shift raises significant security and privacy implications for users, especially regarding the ability of third parties to access personal data.
Detailed Description: The text provides insight into how X (formerly Twitter) is adapting its policies in response to both business challenges and opportunities in the growing AI field. Key aspects include:
– **Changes to Terms of Service and Privacy Policy**: X’s updates direct legal disputes to a federal court in Texas and permit third parties to utilize user posts for AI training, a move that carries potential risks to user privacy.
– **Data Sharing**: Although there appears to be an option for users to opt-out of data sharing, the specifics remain vague. The lack of clarity could lead to unintentional data exposure.
– **Monetization Strategy**: The updates align with a trend in tech companies seeking revenue streams through partnerships, similar to Reddit’s recent deal with Google. This highlights the financial pressures X is facing, particularly after losing major advertisers due to controversial decisions made by its leadership.
– **Legal Protections**: X introduces a “Liquidated Damages” clause penalizing excessive data scraping, which could deter malicious activity but may also raise concerns about user rights and the freedom to access public data.
– **Court Jurisdiction**: The choice of the northern district of Texas for legal disputes may raise concerns about fairness and accessibility, particularly as this district is perceived to be more business-friendly.
– **Historical Context**: Reference is made to Musk’s past threats to sue Microsoft, indicating a complex relationship between public data and proprietary AI development.
In summary, X’s updates present a dual-edged sword for users, balancing financial incentives against potential risks to privacy and data security in an expanding AI landscape. Security and compliance professionals should take heed of these changes, as they could prompt shifts in user behavior and regulatory scrutiny.