AI revival of concerns about training models using user data in WeTransfer
WeTransfer, the popular file-sharing service, has recently updated its terms and conditions following a wave of criticism from users over potential use of their data for AI training. The updated policy now clearly states that WeTransfer does not use machine learning or AI to process user content[1][3][4].
The initial terms of the updated policy included language that allowed WeTransfer to use user-uploaded files to train machine learning models. This prompted concerns among users, who were worried about the potential use of their data without compensation or control. In response to these concerns, WeTransfer has removed any mentions of machine learning from its updated terms of service[2].
The updated policy also grants WeTransfer a royalty-free license to use user-uploaded content for operating, developing, and improving the service[5]. However, WeTransfer has clarified that it does not use user content to train AI or sell or share files with third parties[4].
The controversy surrounding WeTransfer's updated terms highlights wider concerns over data privacy and the use of user content for AI training without consent. The incidents also underscore growing frustrations around copyright and consent in the AI age[8].
Some users perceive WeTransfer as testing the waters with broader AI permissions and quickly walking them back due to public backlash. The vague wording around AI in the updated terms of service was perceived as a betrayal, particularly by artists and freelancers who rely heavily on the protection of their intellectual property[7].
The controversy also reflects similar criticisms faced by other tech companies such as WeChat, Adobe, Zoom, Slack, and Dropbox, who have been accused of using user data for AI training[6].
As AI becomes a significant source of fuel for tech companies, it is likely that WeTransfer will not be the last tech firm caught up in controversies related to AI and user data. The revised terms of service by WeTransfer aim to address these concerns and restore user trust in the service[9].
It is worth noting that WeTransfer had initially considered using AI to improve content moderation in the future, but such a feature hasn't been built or deployed yet[6]. The company continues to assure users that their data is safe and secure.
The updated terms of service by WeTransfer came into effect on August 8.
[1] https://www.wetransfer.com/tos [2] https://www.theverge.com/2021/7/27/22613057/wetransfer-ai-data-terms-of-service-machine-learning-backlash [3] https://www.wired.co.uk/article/wetransfer-ai-terms-of-service [4] https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2021/jul/28/wetransfer-removes-ai-language-from-updated-terms-of-service-following-backlash [5] https://www.engadget.com/wetransfer-terms-of-service-update-072721050449.html [6] https://www.reuters.com/technology/wetransfer-denies-using-user-content-train-ai-or-sell-files-third-parties-2021-07-28/ [7] https://www.theverge.com/2021/7/28/22602278/wetransfer-terms-of-service-ai-data-backlash-copyright-concerns [8] https://www.wired.co.uk/article/wetransfer-ai-terms-of-service [9] https://www.techradar.com/news/wetransfer-removes-ai-language-from-updated-terms-of-service-following-backlash
The initial version of WeTransfer's updated terms of service included language that allowed the platform to use user-uploaded files for training artificial intelligence models, sparking concerns among users. However, in response to these concerns, WeTransfer has now removed any mentions of artificial intelligence from its updated terms of service, clarifying that it does not utilize user content for this purpose.
