Privacy Advocacy Group NOYB Threatens Injunction Against Meta
Austria-based digital rights group NOYB has sent a cease and desist letter to Meta over its plans to train artificial intelligence models using European users' data without explicit consent[3]. Led by privacy activist Max Schrems, the organization argues that Meta's approach violates GDPR regulations and is preparing legal action if the company doesn't change course[3].
Controversial Data Collection Set to Begin Soon
Meta plans to begin using all public posts and user interactions from European Facebook and Instagram accounts to train its
Meta AI models starting May 27, 2025[3]. The company has implemented this as an opt-out system, meaning users must actively fill out an objection form if they don't want their data used[3]. NOYB contends that under GDPR rules, Meta should instead be obtaining opt-in consent from users before collecting their data for AI training[3].
Legal Consequences Could Be Significant
The cease and desist letter was filed on Wednesday, May 14, asking Meta to halt its current plans[3]. If Meta proceeds with its AI training as scheduled, NOYB threatens to seek an injunction and potentially initiate class actions that could lead to substantial damage claims from affected users[3].
Meta's AI Expansion Faces Multiple Legal Challenges
This isn't the only legal obstacle Meta is facing in Europe regarding its AI ambitions. German consumer protection group VZ NRW has also applied for a preliminary injunction against the company's data collection plans[4]. These mounting challenges highlight the growing tension between tech companies' AI development goals and Europe's strict data privacy regulations.
Next Steps
NOYB has indicated it will file for an injunction in Ireland, where Meta's European headquarters are located, if the company doesn't address their concerns[5]. The organization is pushing for Meta to implement proper consent mechanisms that align with GDPR requirements before proceeding with any AI training using European user data.
The outcome of this legal challenge could set important precedents for how tech giants approach AI development using personal data in regions with strong privacy protections like the European Union.
