Brazil Bans Meta from Processing User Data for AI Training

Brazil's data protection authority Autoridade Nacional de Proteção de Dados (ANPD) has temporarily banned Meta from processing users' personal data to train the company's AI algorithms.

The decision follows Meta’s updated terms of service and a new privacy policy, which entitles it to use public content from Facebook, Messenger, and Instagram for AI training purposes.

The ANPD has found "evidence of processing of personal data based on inadequate legal hypotheses, lack of transparency, limitation of the rights of data subjects, and risks to children and adolescents." 

In addition, the ANPD noted the Meta update also violates the General Personal Data Protection Law (LGBD) and has "the imminent risk of serious and irreparable or difficult-to-repair damage to the fundamental rights of the affected data subjects." Notably, with over 102 million active users, Brazil is one of the largest markets. 

Now, Meta can either comply with the order within five working days or risk facing daily fines of 50,000 reais (approximately $8,808). Responding to the ANPD’s decision, the social media giant expressed disappointment and stated that the policy complies with Brazil’s privacy laws and regulations.

Meta also argued that the ruling brings a setback to innovation and competition in AI development and will delay bringing AI benefits to the Brazilian population, in a statement shared with the Associated Press.