LinkedIn has recently declared that it will soon share user data with Microsoft and its affiliates to assist in training artificial intelligence (AI) systems, a decision justified by the firm as being in its “legitimate interest”.
The change stipulates that members are automatically enrolled unless they actively opt out before November 3.
The alteration signifies Microsoft’s expansive aspirations in artificial intelligence, after its substantial investment in OpenAI, the developer of ChatGPT. Large language models (LLMs) rely on extensive datasets to provide more effective replies, and LinkedIn’s network of over one billion users is a significant resource.
In a recent article, LinkedIn stated, “For members in the EU, EEA, Switzerland, Canada, and Hong Kong.” On November 3, 2025, we will begin utilizing data from members in specific locations to train content-generating AI models that enhance your experience and provide more connections to opportunities for our members.
“This may encompass information such as your profile details and publicly shared content on LinkedIn; it excludes your private messages.” We rely on legitimate interest to process your data for this purpose. The site stated, “You may withdraw your consent at any time in your settings if you do not wish for your data to be utilized in this manner.”
LinkedIn has stated that, starting from the specified date, data will be shared with Microsoft in the United States and other countries, encompassing profile information, feed activity, and advertising interactions.
The business stated that the modifications will enable Microsoft’s conglomerate to offer more personalized services and targeted advertising, but customers may examine and modify their privacy settings. Individuals who are not members may submit complaints if their personal information has been disseminated on the site by others.
To opt out: Users may discontinue LinkedIn’s data sharing for AI training by modifying their privacy settings.
Access Settings & Privacy > Data Privacy > Data for Generative AI Enhancement.
Disable “Utilize my data for the training of content creation AI models.”
Users may submit a formal Data Processing Objection request to contest the processing of their data. The objection form is accessible by choosing “Object to processing for training content-generating AI models” and submitting the request. Individuals who are not members may also submit an objection if their personal data has been disclosed on LinkedIn by a member.
