LinkedIn™ AI Training: Are You In or Out?

Artificial intelligence is getting smarter every day. But how? A major reason is access to vast amounts of data—like the content you post on LinkedIn™. And unless you’re in the European Union, LinkedIn™ is likely using your data to train AI right now.

Why LLMs Need Data

Large Language Models (LLMs) are designed to process enormous datasets. The more specific the input, the better the output. These AI models thrive on diverse and abundant information, which is why companies like LinkedIn™ tap into user data to boost their models’ performance.

While many are excited about AI’s potential, some people are uncomfortable with the idea that their personal data is being used for this purpose. This unease has grown even more palpable after a recent change in LinkedIn™’s privacy settings.

The Latest Privacy Update

Just yesterday, LinkedIn™ users in the U.S. woke up to a new setting: “Data for Generative AI Improvement.” The description of the setting reads:

When this setting is on, LinkedIn™ and its affiliates may use your personal data and content you create on LinkedIn™ for that purpose.

What’s significant here is the fact that this setting is automatically turned on. If you don’t want your LinkedIn™ posts to fuel AI learning, you’ll need to manually opt out. It’s a subtle shift but one with big implications for those who care about data privacy.

Europe Stands Apart

If you’re in Europe or Switzerland, no need to scramble for your privacy settings. Thanks to the GDPR and DSA, LinkedIn™ isn’t allowed to use your data for AI training without explicit consent. It’s a stark contrast to the U.S., where the rules are looser, and users must actively decline participation.

Opt In or Opt Out?

Here’s the real question: Are you okay with AI using your posts for training? You might see this as an opportunity to contribute to the future of technology. Or perhaps you’d prefer to keep your thoughts and ideas out of an AI’s training manual.

For those who value privacy, the “opt-out” is likely a no-brainer. On the other hand, if you’re excited about AI’s potential and enjoy seeing how your data could help train smarter systems, leaving the setting as is might seem harmless.

The choice is yours—but be aware of how your data is being used.

Next Steps

Take a moment to check your LinkedIn™ privacy settings, especially if you’re in the U.S. If you’re uncomfortable with your data being used for AI development, make sure you opt out of the new feature.

Otherwise, you might just be contributing to the next breakthrough in AI.