LinkedIn accused of using private messages to train AI

The filing also states that LinkedIn is changing its ‘frequently asked questions’ section to state that users can choose not to share data for AI purposes but that doing so will not affect the training they are already undertaking.

“LinkedIn’s actions … show a pattern of trying to cover its tracks,” the lawsuit says.

“This behavior shows that LinkedIn is fully aware that it violates contractual promises and privacy standards and aims to minimize public scrutiny”.

The lawsuit was filed in California federal court on behalf of LinkedIn Premium users and “all others” in the same situation.

It is seeking $1,000 (£812) per user for allegedly violating the US federal Stored Communications Act as well as an unspecified amount for breach of contract and unfair competition laws in California.

According to an email LinkedIn sent to users last year, it does not enable the sharing of user data for AI purposes in the UK, the European Economic Area and Switzerland.

LinkedIn has more than a billion users worldwide, with almost a quarter of them in the US.

In 2023, the company will attract $1.7bn in revenue from premium subscriptions.

It has also been said that the number of premium subscribers has been growing rapidly as it continues to add more AI features.

Additional reporting by Lily Jamali