Meta AI's new chatbot raises privacy alarms | Fox News
Meta's new AI chatbot is causing concerns over privacy and potential data inaccuracies. The recent introduction of a "Discover" feed in the app allows user-submitted chats to become public, often containing personal information ranging from legal problems to health issues. This has raised serious privacy issues as user data is exposed without their explicit consent.
The Privacy Concerns
Meta AI, launched in April 2025, serves as both a chatbot and social platform where users can engage in various topics. One distinctive feature, the "Discover" tab, showcases shared conversations with the intention of fostering community engagement. However, users were unaware that their chats could be made public with a single tap, leading to inadvertent privacy breaches.
Privacy experts have criticized Meta's handling of user data through the Discover tab, highlighting the exposure of sensitive information like legal dilemmas, therapy discussions, and personal confessions. The platform's interface lacks clarity on distinguishing between public and private conversations, amplifying the risks of unintentional data exposure.
Protecting Your Privacy
If you are a Meta AI user, it is crucial to review your privacy settings and manage your chat history to prevent sharing confidential information accidentally. Take note of the following steps to enhance your privacy:
- Adjust the visibility of your prompts
- Delete sensitive prompts
- Update settings to maintain prompt privacy
It is essential to understand that most AI chat tools store conversations by default for various purposes, such as enhancing performance and developing new features. User inputs may be reviewed by human moderators or saved in training logs, underscoring the importance of actively managing your data privacy.
Ensuring Privacy with AI Tools
While AI tools offer valuable assistance, they also pose privacy risks if not used cautiously. Implement the following measures to safeguard your privacy while using AI chat platforms:
- Use aliases and avoid personal identifiers
- Avoid sharing sensitive information
- Regularly clear your chat history
- Adjust privacy settings consistently
- Consider using an identity theft protection service
- Utilize a VPN for additional privacy
- Avoid linking AI apps to your real social accounts
By being proactive in managing your privacy settings and being mindful of the information you share, you can mitigate the risks associated with AI chatbots. Stay informed, review your settings regularly, and take steps to protect your data from unauthorized access.
Meta's approach of transforming chatbot prompts into social content blurs the lines between private and public spheres, necessitating heightened awareness among users. Take control of your privacy settings, review your interactions, and exercise caution when using AI platforms to safeguard your sensitive data.
