As the Meta Llama 3 model uses available data posted by several users on Meta's platform, the letter urges immediate action to scrutinise the privacy-related concerns. 

As Meta introduced AI on its platform, SFCL a legal service organisation in India has raised concerns over the privacy and security of users. It was stated in a letter sent to Electronics and IT Union Minister, Ashwini Vaishnaw to seek attention to the potential risk.

Meta-owned platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram have rolled out AI features called ‘Meta AI’ which allow users to generate text-based content and create images. As the Meta Llama 3 model uses available data posted by several users on Meta’s platform, the letter urges immediate action to scrutinise the privacy-related concerns.

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India stands as Meta’s largest market with at least a billion combined subscribers. The new AI use would raise crucial privacy concerns since the country given its a huge number of active users, especially on Facebook and WhatsApp.

Since a myriad number of people use these platforms the company collects a high number of data which also includes additional data from non-users. Meta AI may compile this data to create a profile as per the user interest which would further lead to insidious privacy breaches, stated Prasanth Sugathan, Legal Director, SFLC.in (Software Freedom Law Centre).

The letter extends attention to other countries that already restricted AI use on account of EU law as the online platforms are asked to give rights to the users to choose data emission on processing activities. Users are not aware of Meta‘s consent process as it was not made directly with the users. The letter emphasised that the AI data collection doesn’t possess proper guidelines and regulations.

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The implementation of the Digital Data Protection Act of 2023 is still pending, which could result in a significant increase in data collection. In addition, social media platforms indirectly approach profiling and surveillance forcing people to be cautious of the extensive capabilities of AI, the letter added.