Is LinkedIn Secretly Using Your Profile to Train AI Models? Here's How to Stop It

As the world delves deeper into the realm of artificial intelligence (AI), numerous tech companies are grappling with new and innovative ways to train their AI models. LinkedIn, one of the most popular professional networking platforms in the world, has recently been found to be using user data to train generative AI models. In a move that many users would deem as an invasion of their digital privacy, LinkedIn has taken to using user-generated data to enhance their AI capabilities.

This move has sparked widespread controversy, with many users criticizing LinkedIn for their failure to provide adequate notification and for their decision to opt users in by default. While the company has attempted to justify their actions by stating that the data is being used to improve user experience, many have expressed concern that this move marks the first step down a slippery slope towards rampant data exploitation.

Fortunately, for users who are concerned about LinkedIn's recent move, there is a way to opt out of the data collection program. A simple tweak to your account settings can prevent LinkedIn from using your data to train their AI models, thereby restoring a measure of control over your digital footprint.

To opt out of LinkedIn's AI data collection program, users simply need to navigate to the 'Settings & Account' tab and select 'Visibility'. From there, users can scroll down to the 'Data and analytics' section, where they will find an option titled 'Allow LinkedIn to use my data to improve AI models'. By switching this toggle off, users can prevent LinkedIn from using their data for training AI models.

It is worth noting that this move is likely to have an impact on users' experience on the platform, as LinkedIn's AI models drive many of the features that users have come to rely on. For example, the feature that suggests potential connections to users based on their existing network is powered by AI. By opting out, users may find that their experience on the platform is somewhat diminished.

Despite the potential impact on user experience, many users will likely opt out of the data collection program due to concerns over digital privacy. As more and more companies seek to exploit user data to enhance their AI capabilities, it is becoming increasingly important for users to be aware of the way in which their data is being used and to take steps to protect their digital footprint.

While LinkedIn's recent move has sparked widespread controversy, it has also provided users with an opportunity to take control of their data. By opting out of the AI data collection program, users can ensure that their data is not being used in a way that makes them uncomfortable, and that they are not unknowingly contributing to the creation of more sophisticated AI models.