Google has made an important update to its privacy policy that relates to how it uses data for training its artificial intelligence (AI) models.
Training AI Models
AI models like ChatGPT rely on web scraping to gather data from the internet. This process involves extracting information from online sources, which is then used to provide analysis and responses to users.
The Updated Policy
Effective from July 1, the updated privacy policy now states the following:
“Google uses information to improve our services and to develop new products, features, and technologies that benefit our users and the public. For example, we use publicly available information to help train Google’s AI models and build products and features like Google Translate, Bard, and Cloud AI capabilities.”
What Has Changed
The noteworthy change is that the policy now mentions the use of publicly available information to train AI models. Previously, the policy specifically mentioned “language models.” Additionally, it now includes not just Google Translate but also Cloud AI and Bard as examples of products and features being developed.
Implications
This update implies that any publicly posted information can be utilized to train Bard, future versions, and other generative AI products developed by Google. While many companies restrict their data usage to information provided directly on their platforms, Google’s policy allows them to use publicly available data as well.
Protecting Your Data
To better protect your data online, consider taking the following steps:
- Only share information publicly that you are comfortable with anyone using.
- Utilize Google’s privacy controls, including options to opt out of features like “Web & App Activity,” “Location History,” and “Voice & Audio Activity.”
- Explore alternative services with stricter privacy policies, such as DuckDuckGo for search, ProtonMail for email, Vimeo for video sharing, and Brave for web browsing.
- Enable incognito or private browsing mode when using Google.
- Read and understand the privacy policies of websites, mobile apps, or other services before using them.
By being mindful of your online data and taking appropriate measures, you can have better control over your privacy and protect your personal information.
