A lawsuit claims LinkedIn secretly used user data for artificial intelligence (AI) training, which LinkedIn denies.
Allegations of Unauthorized Data Sharing
A U.S. lawsuit filed on behalf of LinkedIn Premium users accuses the platform of sharing private messages with external companies to train AI models. It claims LinkedIn quietly added a privacy setting in August 2022. This setting allegedly enrolled users into a program allowing third-party use of their data without explicit consent.
The lawsuit also accuses LinkedIn, owned by Microsoft, of attempting to hide its actions. A month after the privacy setting change, LinkedIn reportedly updated its privacy policy. The update disclosed that user data might be used for AI training.
The filing further alleges LinkedIn changed its FAQ section. It added a statement explaining users could opt out of data sharing for AI. However, the lawsuit claims opting out wouldn’t reverse training that had already occurred.
LinkedIn’s Response and Potential Penalties
LinkedIn has strongly denied the accusations, calling them “false claims with no merit.” A spokesperson stated the company acted appropriately and complied with privacy standards.
The lawsuit describes LinkedIn’s actions as deliberate efforts to cover up its data practices. It argues the company knowingly violated user trust and privacy agreements while attempting to avoid public criticism.
Filed in a California federal court, the lawsuit seeks $1,000 per affected user under the U.S. Stored Communications Act. It also requests damages for breach of contract and violations of California’s unfair competition laws.
LinkedIn’s Global Reach and AI Developments
LinkedIn claims it has not enabled data sharing for AI purposes in the U.K., European Economic Area, or Switzerland. Globally, LinkedIn serves over one billion users, with a significant portion based in the U.S.
In 2023, LinkedIn earned $1.7 billion from premium subscriptions. The company has reported rapid growth in its premium user base. This increase coincides with LinkedIn introducing more AI-driven features to its platform.
