Microsoft-owned LinkedIn is under fire as a class-action lawsuit alleges the platform used Premium customers’ private messages to train generative AI models without proper consent. Filed on behalf of millions of Premium users, the lawsuit claims LinkedIn disclosed private InMail messages to third parties, violating privacy rights.
The Heart of the Allegations
The lawsuit, brought before a federal court in San Jose, California, argues that LinkedIn quietly altered its privacy settings and policies to enable data sharing for AI training. In August 2024, the platform introduced a privacy setting allowing users to opt out of sharing personal data. However, a subsequent privacy policy update on September 18, 2024, disclosed that user data could be used for AI training, regardless of whether they opted out.
LinkedIn allegedly stated in a “Frequently Asked Questions” section that opting out would not undo AI training that had already occurred. This, according to the plaintiffs, was an attempt to retroactively justify actions that had already breached user trust.
Legal Claims
The lawsuit accuses LinkedIn of breaching its contract with Premium customers and violating California’s unfair competition law. Additionally, it seeks $1,000 per person under the federal Stored Communications Act, alongside other damages. The plaintiffs claim LinkedIn misused their private data while assuring users that the information would only be used to enhance platform performance.
Wider Implications
This legal action highlights the growing tension between tech companies and consumer privacy rights in the age of artificial intelligence. As businesses increasingly turn to AI for innovation, transparency in data usage has become a focal point for scrutiny.
The lawsuit also coincides with a major announcement by former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding a $500 billion joint venture between OpenAI, Oracle, and SoftBank to build AI infrastructure in the United States. While unrelated, the timing underscores the rising stakes in the AI landscape.
Microsoft’s Response
As of now, Microsoft and LinkedIn have not issued any public comments regarding the lawsuit. The case, titled De La Torre v LinkedIn Corp, is set to play out in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California.
What’s Next?
If the lawsuit proceeds, it could have significant repercussions for LinkedIn and other companies utilizing customer data for AI development. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of transparency and consent in data handling practices.
As the legal battle unfolds, Premium customers and privacy advocates will closely monitor how LinkedIn addresses these allegations and whether this lawsuit could spark broader changes in data privacy regulations for tech companies.
