Meta has introduced a new AI-driven feature called Muse Image for Instagram, which is raising privacy concerns. This tool allows users to generate customized AI images by referencing photos from public Instagram accounts by default. Privacy advocates are worried that many users might not be aware their publicly posted photos can be used for such purposes, as the feature is set to active by default.
The company has stated that Muse Image incorporates safety precautions, specifying that private accounts and individuals under the age of 18 are automatically excluded. Additionally, adult users with public profiles can choose to opt out by adjusting their privacy settings in the “Sharing and Reuse” section. Despite these measures, privacy experts argue that the opt-out option is challenging to locate and suggest that users should have been required to opt in before their images could be used in AI-generated content.
There is also concern from advocates regarding the possibility of images containing children being inadvertently included. While Meta’s safeguards aim to protect underage accounts, photos posted by adults might still feature children, potentially allowing their images to be utilized in AI content.
Meta assures that Muse Image is equipped with safeguards to prevent misuse and allows users to report any inappropriate AI-generated images. This feature is currently accessible through the Meta AI app, Instagram Stories in the United States, and WhatsApp in selected countries, with plans for further expansion.