How to stop Instagram from using your data to train Meta’s AI

Instagram has started using your posts, likes, and even private messages to improve its artificial intelligence system, Meta AI. This data collection happens automatically unless you take action to stop it. While this feature is active by default, Instagram has hidden a manual opt-out option deep in its settings. Here’s how you can reclaim your data and prevent Meta from using your information to train its AI models.

Access the privacy settings from the app

To begin, open the Instagram app and tap the three-line menu at the top right corner. Navigate to Settings and activity, scroll to the bottom, and choose Information under the “More info and support” section.

Submit a request to opt out

Next, tap on Privacy policy, where you’ll see detailed explanations of Instagram’s data use. Inside this text, find and select the highlighted “Object” link. This will redirect you to a form that explains what data Meta collects and how it’s used for AI training.

Scroll down to the bottom of that page and complete the form, explaining how this use of your data affects you and why you object to it. This manual step is necessary to formally request that your data not be used.

Use a tool to simplify the process

An alternative method is available via Citizen8, an independent advocacy group. They offer a webpage that generates a ready-to-send email for Instagram or Facebook, helping you object more easily. Just make sure to send the email from the address linked to your Instagram account.

By taking these steps, you can protect your personal content from being absorbed into Meta’s AI systems, maintaining control over how your digital footprint is used.