WeTransfer, the popular file-sharing service, has confirmed that it does not utilize files uploaded by users to train artificial intelligence (AI) models. This clarification comes after the company faced significant backlash from customers on social media following changes to its terms of service. Many users interpreted these changes as granting WeTransfer the authority to use their files for AI training purposes, prompting widespread criticism.
A spokeswoman from WeTransfer addressed these concerns in a statement to BBC News, emphasizing, "We don't use machine learning or any form of AI to process content shared via WeTransfer, nor do we sell content or data to any third parties." This assurance aims to alleviate fears surrounding user privacy and data security, especially in the context of increasing scrutiny over AI practices.
In response to the confusion, WeTransfer has updated its terms of service to make the language clearer for users. The original clause was included to explore the potential for using AI to enhance content moderation and identify harmful content. However, it stated that WeTransfer could utilize user-uploaded content to improve the performance of machine learning models that support its content moderation processes. This led some users to mistakenly believe that the company had the right to share or sell their files to AI corporations.
The vague wording in the previous terms sparked a strong reaction, particularly from individuals in the creative industries, including illustrators and actors, who voiced their concerns on social media platforms like X. Many expressed that they relied on WeTransfer for sharing their work and began contemplating switching to alternative file-sharing services due to these unsettling implications.
WeTransfer updated the controversial clause on Tuesday, stating, "You hereby grant us a royalty-free license to use your Content for the purposes of operating, developing, and improving the Service, all in accordance with our Privacy & Cookie Policy." This revised clause aims to clarify the company's intentions regarding user-uploaded content. The changes will take effect on August 8 for all existing users.
WeTransfer is not alone in facing scrutiny; another file-sharing platform, Dropbox, also had to clarify that it does not use uploaded files for AI training following a similar social media outcry in December 2023. The tech outlet The Register highlighted that the strong public reaction reflects a growing distrust among users towards technology companies.
Mona Schroedel, a data protection specialist lawyer at Freeths, commented on the implications of changing terms of service and privacy policies. She noted that these changes can carry hidden risks for users. "All companies are keen to cash in on the AI craze, and what AI needs more than anything is data," she explained. This underscores the potential for companies to attempt to repurpose existing data for machine learning under the pretext of legitimate interests aimed at improving service quality.
As WeTransfer and other tech companies navigate the complexities of AI and user data, it is crucial for them to maintain transparency and build trust with their customers. Users often find themselves in challenging situations when the terms of services they rely on suddenly change, leaving them with limited options. The recent updates from WeTransfer highlight the importance of clear communication regarding data usage practices.
Additional reporting by Liv McMahon.
